What’s Happening in the Third Sector?

The Big Help Out

The Big Help Out recently launched their app for volunteers, offering thousands of opportunities from 1,500 charities across the UK. The app is designed to help those new to volunteering or who have previously experienced barriers or challenges to find quick and easy suitable opportunities, searchable by postcode, activity, and organization.

The campaign is part of the Coronation celebrations and is founded by the Shaping the Future with Volunteering Group, working in partnership with The Together Coalition, and is supported by the DCMS and the Royal Households.

The campaign aims to capture new interest in volunteering, channelling it towards groups and causes that need support after formal volunteering rates fell during COVID. Opportunities for volunteering will be available throughout the summer, including Volunteers Week and Thank You Day.

Find out more here.


New Fund Launched to Fight Loneliness and Boost Volunteering in Disadvantaged Areas

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport have launched a new major fund aimed at tackling loneliness and boosting volunteering in disadvantaged areas.

Up to £30 million will be allocated to support the creation of volunteering opportunities and to reduce loneliness, benefiting organizations including youth clubs, mental health charities, and social enterprises.

27 underprivileged areas will receive support to establish fresh volunteering opportunities. Charitable projects that unite communities will be financially backed by the “Know Your Neighbourhood Fund”, with a budget of up to £30 million.

According to recent research, individuals residing in deprived areas and regions with high unemployment rates tend to experience more loneliness. Volunteering opportunities serve to foster community connections, promote skill development and networking, and assist public services.

Read the full press release from the DCMS here.


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