Volunteering
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Volunteering
The Volunteering team works with a range of charitable and non -profit organisations that host students to take part in volunteering opportunities. Our extensive network connects students with meaningful volunteer work across London.
Students can also join a volunteering project to gain real-world experience, develop skills and make a meaningful impact, while exploring different sectors and building their experience.
Watch our brief video on volunteering
Volunteering opportunities
Accessing opportunities on Career Zone
The Career Zone - holds details of a wide range of volunteering opportunities offered by several different organisations, a wide range of tasks, different durations from a few hours in a one-off activity to regular hours over some months in an organisation. Students can explore all the volunteer opportunities London provides through our comprehensive database, featuring roles appropriate for skills, interests, and time commitments.
Success Tip: Be open to checking out roles that you think might not apply to you. An animal charity might need a creative design volunteer, and a health charity might want a marketing volunteer - look through the details of the volunteering opportunity and surprise yourself! Many volunteer jobs offer unexpected skill development opportunities that can enhance your CV and career prospects.
Example projects
Mural project: A garden with a view
The Mural Project, which started in April 2024, allowed students from UEL to work with Southern Housing to paint a mural over the summer. Led by Shazma Khatun and Nadine Johnson, and funded by AD Construction, 12 students collaborated with residents to design and paint a beautiful piece of art at Southern Housing’s independent living unit.
Community Pharmacist Project
Similarly, the Community Pharmacist Project helped raise awareness about diabetes and taught students' important skills like communication and problem-solving. Public Health students volunteered at Yemi’s Pharmacy, engaging with patients and gaining valuable experience.
IT Project
The IT Project helped residents of Southern Housing learn basic tech skills. Volunteers taught residents how to use computers and other technology, making it easier for them to stay connected and access important services.
Get involved
Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain experience, develop skills, and help your community. There are many opportunities available, from teaching tech skills to helping at local events. Volunteering not only benefits others but also boosts your career. London's vibrant charity sector offers countless volunteer opportunities for London students to engage with, from community development projects to environmental initiatives and social justice campaigns.
If you are interested in working with the Volunteering team to offer opportunities to UEL students, please email us.
Current students can log into the Career Zone website to find volunteer opportunities, while prospective students can email Career Zone for more details.
Volunteering FAQs
Who can take part in volunteering at UEL?
All current UEL students can access volunteering opportunities through the Volunteering Team and Career Zone. Some roles are also open to recent graduates and alumni.
How do I find volunteering roles, and do I need experience?
You can search for one-off activities, short projects and longer placements on Career Zone. Most organisations welcome beginners and provide training, so you don’t need previous experience.
What kinds of volunteering opportunities are available?
Roles range from creative projects and community outreach to health campaigns, IT support, marketing and events. You can choose opportunities that match your interests and the time you have available.
How much time do I need to commit?
Commitments vary. Some activities last a few hours. Others run weekly over several weeks or months. You can pick options that fit your schedule.
How does volunteering support my career, and is it recognised?
Volunteering builds skills such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving, and gives you real examples to use in applications and interviews. Many roles can also be recorded on your Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR). The Volunteering Team can help you choose roles, apply, and get support along the way.
