Volunteering

[Bookmonster345]

My 12 year old Dd seems to have a lot of free time at the moment and would like to volunteer, but we are finding it really hard to find somewhere that will take someone as young as herself. The local libary won't take anyone under the age of 14 and we are waiting to hear back from our local newspaper. Her interests lie in reading and literacy, along with debating and law. Any ideas?

I used to help my elderly neighbours with cleaning/gardening when i was young.

I think she may have to wait a couple of years for work experience, unless you've got any personal contacts that could help.

At that age DS spent the summer looking after pets for holidaying neighbours, and DD used to visit with a number of elderly people in our town - sometimes just a cup of tea and a chat, sometimes a few light chores.

Have you looked online for volunteering in your area? Age may be a problem but worth a look. Google 'volunteering with town or county name'.

She will have to wait until she is 13. Ask your council - they have a form which states which kind of jobs the kids can do from that age onwards - (the restrictions have to do all with health and safety and child protection laws). A lot of local parks though will have friends organisations (you'd have to accompany her) who help clear up etc. Have her join girlguiding uk!