We’re in search of amazing people to volunteer and we need your help to find that special someone! 

YWCA Yorkshire is appealing to local people, community groups and regional media to help spread the word about current volunteering opportunities this February. 

Volunteering is one of the greatest gifts a person can give, and the benefits are far-reaching for charities, communities, and for the people donating their time. In fact, volunteering appeals to so many people precisely because it delivers such a broad spectrum of rewards. 

Often, volunteering is a route into work for the first time or after a period away, possibly because of study, raising a family, caring or ill-health. Some volunteers say that they donate time to give back after receiving similar types of support themselves. For those retired, it’s often described as an opportunity to keep using the valuable skills they've developed over the duration of their career; to stay connected to people and communities and to keep making a difference.  

YWCA Yorkshire attracts a diverse range of people to their volunteering roles. Some support the charity’s work for a few hours a month, whilst others are deeply embedded in project teams - volunteering weekly and even daily. The 18-strong volunteer team are all unique, with their own celebrated set of talents and skills, varying levels of availability, a range of motivations that led them to volunteering, and a multitude of ambitions for the future.   

This month, YWCA Yorkshire is growing the volunteering team to do more to support women, children and families locally.  Specifically, the charity is in search of amazing people interested in Handyperson, Housekeeper, Administrator and Befriender volunteer roles. 

Kayleigh Wilson, has been volunteering with YWCA Yorkshire for 18 months in various roles including Administrator and Befriender. Kayleigh said: “My long-term aim is to be employed as a Project Worker, supporting other women. As a volunteer with YWCA Yorkshire, I’ve been able to build the experience, confidence and qualifications I’ll need to take that next step. It’s really opened my eyes to the potential job opportunities in the third sector, and I’ve been able to progress at a pace that works for me and my family.” 

Sue Touhey has been volunteering with the charity for eight years. Sue said: “When I retired, I felt I still had something to give, and I missed the daily interactions that used to happen in the workplace.   Volunteering has helped me connect with my local community and the staff team at YWCA Yorkshire. It is great for my mental health and general wellbeing.” 

YWCA Yorkshire HR Manager, Diane Offers, said: "The people we support through YWCA Yorkshire may be homeless or in a housing crisis. They may be in financial and relationship difficulties and could be experiencing poor mental health.  

“Our specialist staff team offer a safe place to call home, support to leave and recover from a violent partner and compassion, understanding and expert training through early years parenting, relationship breakdowns and poor mental health.  

“We couldn't do this vital work without the support of volunteers.  This Valentine's Day we're launching a campaign asking you to please help us spread the LOVE and the WORD about volunteering opportunities at YWCA Yorkshire.” 

YWCA Yorkshire support more than 250 women, children and families to build better futures in Doncaster, Sheffield and Rotherham. The charity works with people through three housing projects and out in the community. In Sheffield the focus is supporting young, homeless, single women and their children. In Rotherham and Doncaster, the support extends to a wider range of families raising children.  

The people referred to YWCA Yorkshire often don't have the security or comfort of family to help them in times of crisis. The charity prioritises vulnerable people in those critical early years of a child’s life, supporting people who care for a child to access professionals, build networks and lay down the foundations for better futures. 

Follow YWCA Yorkshire on LinkedIn. Facebook and X to join the #YWCAYorkshireVolunteer conversation and help share opportunities.  

Alternatively, express an interest in volunteering here: https://bit.ly/ywcayorkshirevolunteer