Volunteering has many valuable benefits for migrants, both personally and professionally:

1. Building social connections: Meeting people from different backgrounds, making friends and feeling part of the local community, reducing loneliness and isolation.

2. Improving wellbeing and confidence: Giving a sense of purpose and routine, feeling valued and respected, improving mental health and self-esteem.

3. Understanding UK culture and systems: Learning how organisations work, becoming familiar with workplace culture, understanding local services and your rights.

4. Improving English and communication skills: Practicing speaking and listening in real-life settings, learning local phrases, customs, and accents, building confidence to speak English.

5. Supporting integration: Getting involved in local events and decision-making, breaking down stereotypes, building trust, strengthening a sense of unity and belonging. In some contexts—such as applying for British citizenship—volunteering can help show that you’re committed to life in the UK and contribute positively to society.

6. Developing job skills and CV: Gaining work experience in the UK, learning new skills (e.g. teamwork, customer service), being exposed to networking opportunities with professionals, getting references for future jobs or training opportunities. Always include any volunteering experience in your CV or job application.

→