Please tell me about any voluntary work you have done that has been both sociable and mentally stimulating.

[alwaysandnever]

Post-covid restrictions, my job is likely to remain working from home. I work 4 days per week and have teenage children who are just a few years off flying the nest.

I don't mind working from home but would like some connection with the outside world on a weekly basis, and to feel like I am doing something useful. My job has always been a bit stand-alone so lacks face-to-face social interactions. I like learning new things and spending time with knowledgeable people. I guess I am looking for something that fosters a sense of camaraderie and coming together for a shared goal. Does anyone volunteer in a role which ticks all these boxes?

I could probably offer half a day or one or two evenings per week.

Olio

Help out in a school? I volunteered while trying to decide if I wanted to teach and it was so lovely, great atmosphere and a real sense of achievement at the end of the day. I think it ticks all of your boxes. I'd recommend it to anyone with a bit of spare time to give.

@murbblurb

Meet and greet/garden guide for the national trust in one of their many amazing gardens, the kind of place people travel for hours to see. One day. ...

I tried volunteering for the National Trust. I have a huge amount of knowledge and qualifications that could have been put to good use but all I ever got asked to do was scan cards when people came in and offer them a map. It was really disappointing.

Become a mentor to a teenage girl with The Girls Network.

I’m a steward at our local cathedral, which involves greeting people and imparting information about the history, architecture, organs, stained glass etc etc. Very mentally stimulating and sociable - with visitors, and your colleagues. You certainly dont have to worship at the cathedral to volunteer and afaik you dont have to be a Christian (they knew I am when I volunteered so the question didn’t come up)

I volunteeed for years at various museums pre-Covid. I did the kids educational activities and also the info desk. So much fun - you always meet loads of interesting people. It usually comes with nice perks too, like tours with curators and membership benefits (exhibition opening parties etc.).

Old thread re-established but I'm following with interest.

If op is around, did you try any of the suggestions? I will shortly be in a similar boat but very indecisive as to what to try. I have a couple of ideas as to what I might prefer so I guess I just need to give them a try. I definitely want a bit of social interaction but not too much pressure.

I volunteer for a domestic violence charity. One thing I didn't realise is how hard it is to get a voluntary role. We get emails nearly every day with offers of help but most of them we have to say no to, due to lack of resources. I was really lucky to get a foot in the door, and I never take it for granted.

I used to volunteer as a custody visitor. After comprehensive training you would visit custody suites, speak to detainees to ensure they were receiving their rights in accordance with PACE guidelines. You'd then submit your form to the local police authority. Very interesting work and an eye opener. You couldn't fail to be moved by some of the things you'd see or hear.

Woodcraft Folk leader, if it's a thing in your area, as an alternative to Guides or Scouts (pretty similar but no uniforms). Depends entirely on the other leaders which I'd pick.

I came on to say volunteer for CAB. I was an adviser for 18 months. Excellent training package, lots of opportunities for further training, keeps you up to date with law and policy. Very varied work. Great feeling if you successfully support people (I spent a LOT of time assisting with DLA/PIP/Universal Credit applications and appeals and these are literally life-changing for people. Made lots of friends, maintained contacts and has been very beneficial in my career. If you enjoy problem solving it would be right up your street 😊

Ah sorry, didn’t realise this was an old thread…