Volunteering is a great way for migrants to gain experience, build skills, and feel more connected to their local community. It can also help them feel more confident and improve their English.

Benefits of volunteering for migrants

• Meet new people, make friends, and feel part of the community
• Practice speaking English in everyday situations
• Build confidence and feel a sense of purpose
• Learn about how things work in the UK, including local services and workplace culture
• Gain experience and references that can help when looking for a job

Can all migrants volunteer?

Most migrants can volunteer, but some immigration rules apply:

• People on visitor visas usually cannot volunteer
• People seeking asylum or with “No Recourse to Public Funds” can often volunteer while waiting for a decision. Always check visa rules or speak with an immigration adviser before starting.

Common challenges migrants face

Many migrants are unaware that volunteering is possible, unsure where to look for roles, or find it difficult to secure one. They may be unfamiliar with the UK’s volunteering culture or hesitant to approach organisations. They may also feel anxious about the language barrier or fear being unwelcome due to their background or accent. For some, practical barriers like costs of travel or childcare, lack of digital access, or time constraints can be an obstacle.

How you can help migrants volunteer  

• Clarify legal rules: Help your clients check if their immigration status permits volunteering. 
• Explore interest: Help them identify their interests and strengths or the causes they are passionate about. 
• Build confidence: Discuss the benefits of volunteering and give reassurance about the value, strengths, and the informal nature of many roles. Address potential fears (e.g. around language or discrimination).
• Signpost to opportunities: Share trusted volunteering opportunity websites such as Do-it.org, Volunteering Matters and NCVO, or signpost to local trusted organisations looking for volunteers. Local councils and libraries often list volunteering roles too.
• Assist in finding opportunities: Offer support with applications, CVs, or attending interviews.
• Address practical needs: Help clients identify flexible volunteering opportunities in familiar or nearby settings or to access travel funds.
• Promote inclusive spaces: Connect with culturally inclusive volunteer organisations that value diversity and offer mentoring or buddy systems.

Other ways to get involved

Volunteering is just one way to get involved with local communities. Migrants can also join sports clubs, hobby groups or a local library, get involved with their children’s schools, share their culture through food, art or music events, or attend local council meetings and consultations. These activities help migrants use their skills and feel included in shaping the community they live in.

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