Volunteering : the essential guide

The world of volunteering has undergone a huge transformation over the past 50 years.

With over 170,000 general charities currently registered in the UK, there are more opportunities than ever before to get involved.

The combined impact of global economic uncertainty and an ageing population here in the UK mean that volunteering is likely to be considered by many who would previously never have contemplated it.

But where do you start? Whether you are still in education, retired, out of work, living with a disability or long term condition, or simply wish to put something back into society and aren't sure where to begin - this essential guide can help you find an opportunity to fit in with your life.

Volunteering might just turn out to be the best thing you've ever done!