For many of us, the New Year brings about an opportunity to reflect on the past year and set our intentions for the year ahead.

We are all looking for ways to be healthier and happier in 2017, and there’s good evidence to suggest volunteering brings benefits to people who volunteer, as well as the organisations they support.

Studies have shown that volunteering can have a variety of health benefits including positive mental health and wellbeing, reduced social isolation and improved physical health.

Our volunteers play a wide range of vital roles within Victim Support, providing emotional and practical support to people affected by crime, supporting our office teams with project work or administration, and raising much-needed funds.

Every day across England and Wales, our volunteers generously give their time to help people move beyond crime and traumatic events. Their support helps people feel stronger, understood and able to move forward with their lives.

One of our Volunteer Caseworkers, Bharti, says:

‘Volunteering is the perfect vehicle to discover something you are really good at and develop new skills.

‘The ability to set yourself challenges and achieve them is a great thing to do, and volunteering is an excellent place to start.

‘Getting involved with Victim Support has allowed me the opportunity to give something back to my community.

‘I can see the direct impact of my actions on some of the most vulnerable people in society. It’s this sense of fulfilment that keeps me volunteering.’

We are always looking for new volunteers to join our local teams and have a variety of roles available. Find out more about volunteering with us and how to get started.