Royal Voluntary Service
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Why volunteer with Royal Voluntary Service?

Volunteering should fit your life, not the other way around. With Royal Voluntary Service, you can choose a role that works for you. Whether that’s offering companionship, helping someone regain independence after illness, or volunteering in hospitals to support NHS services. 

No matter what role you take on, you’ll be making a real difference, for others and yourself.

Volunteering changes lives, including yours 

When you volunteer with Royal Voluntary Service, you don’t just help others, you benefit too. Gain new skills, build confidence, and connect with your community. Whether you're looking for experience, giving back, or just want to be part of something bigger, there’s a volunteering opportunity for you at Royal Voluntary Service. 

How can you get involved

There’s a volunteering role to suit every interest and schedule. Whether you want to help in your local community, volunteer in a hospital, or try something new, we’ll help you find the perfect fit. 

Find your perfect role

There’s a volunteer opportunity waiting for you in communities and NHS settings across England, Scotland and Wales. Ready to take the first step?

Search volunteer roles

Volunteering has given me skills to help my career.

Amma is a Home from Hospital Volunteer, is studying social care. Volunteering is helping her gain hands-on experience while supporting people as they recover at home, getting them back to health and back to the things they love.

Read Amma’s story

Give a little, gain lot

Our volunteers provide vital support when people need it most, but the benefits go both ways. See how volunteering could improve your life too.
How volunteering can benefit you
A Royal Voluntary Service Volunteer chatting with a older woman

There’s a role for everyone

There’s no such thing as a typical volunteer. Whatever your age, background, or experience, there’s a role that’s right for you. 

  • Students and career changers – Build skills, gain experience and make valuable connections. 
  • Parents and caregivers – Flexible volunteering roles that fit around family life while helping your community.
  • Retirees and empty-nesters – Stay active, social, and make a meaningful contribution. 

Whatever your reason for volunteering, we’ll help you find the right fit.

Find your volunteering path
A male volunteer supporting a woman on a walk

Volunteering opens doors

Students and young adults are joining Royal Voluntary Service in record numbers, and for good reason. 

  • Gain real-world skills that employers love.
  • Get experience in healthcare, social care or retail.
  • Build a network of friends and career contacts.
  • Boost your confidence and discover new interests. 

Best of all? You’ll be making a real impact while having fun along the way.

Explore student & young adult volunteering
Younger volunteer at NHS COVID vaccine centre

What can you do as a volunteer?

There are so many ways to get involved. Everyone has something to offer. Find out how you can make a difference today.

Explore volunteer roles

Got questions? We’ve got answers

Not sure where to start? Wondering what to expect? Check out our FAQs and get the answers you need.

Read our volunteer FAQs

Already a Royal Voluntary Service volunteer? 

Manage your volunteering by signing in to the volunteering app.

Sign in to My RVS