As people across Somerset begin the new year thinking about fresh starts and positive changes, Somerset Council is encouraging residents to consider volunteering as a rewarding way to give back, learn new skills and connect with their community.
Somerset Council offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities across the county, supporting services that help children and young people, protect and enhance the natural environment, promote arts and culture, improve public health and strengthen local communities. Opportunities vary throughout the year, with roles to suit different interests, skills and time commitments.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Executive Member for Communities at Somerset Council, said:
Volunteers are the lifeblood of Somerset. Whether you have an hour a week or a little more, there’s a role where your skills and kindness can make a real difference, from supporting young people to caring for our countryside and welcoming visitors to our libraries and cultural sites. If you’re looking for purpose this new year, please explore our opportunities and get involved.
Volunteers play a vital role in helping services reach more people and make a real difference. From supporting young people to have their voices heard, helping people access libraries and employment support, caring for Somerset’s countryside and National Landscapes, or welcoming visitors to cultural and heritage sites, volunteers are at the heart of many council services.
Examples of volunteering opportunities include:
- Helping people build confidence and employment skills through Community Employment Hubs
- Working with countryside, Rights of Way and National Landscape teams
- Supporting libraries through home deliveries, events, digital support and children’s activities
- Supporting children and young people through Route 1, the Youth Offending Team, or the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
- Assisting with public health services, transport to appointments, and civil ceremonies
Not all roles are available all year round, but people can search and apply for current opportunities online. If a role is not currently recruiting, individuals can register their interest and will be contacted when opportunities become available.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities with Somerset Council, visit volunteering.somerset.gov.uk.
For volunteering opportunities across Somerset with other organisations, visit Spark a Change and find the opportunity that’s right for you.
As the new year begins, volunteering offers a positive way to try something new, meet new people and make a meaningful contribution to communities across Somerset.
