How to: volunteer remotely

The world feels a little uncertain at the moment, but the important thing to remember is that we’re all in this together and can support each other in new ways. 

Whether you’re continuing the Volunteering section for your DofE, or just want to help out in your community, take a look at these tips. 

1. Get in touch with your volunteering Assessor to see how you can help 

If you’ve already started your volunteering activity, contact your Assessor to see if there are alternative ways you can continue it from home. This might include helping with social media accounts, doing online research or campaigning, or designing flyers and resources. Reach out and ask! 

If you’re unable to continue the same activity remotely, think about changing it. Consider new options and discuss them with your parents / carer / guardian and DofE Leader. 

2. Online mentoring

As schools across the UK have temporarily closed, parents / carers / guardians are looking for new ways to work whilst looking after their children. A helping hand with schoolwork will be greatly appreciated. Choose a subject you know lots about and talk to your family to see if any of their friends’ children need online mentoring and support. 

3. Create helpful resources 

If you’re a Cadet, Brownie, Cub or youth group leader, you could spend your time creating useful resources for the rest of your group, for when you’re back. This could be a short video or an interactive presentation. 

 4. Create an online support community 

We’re all in the same boat and feeling a bit anxious. Why not use your social media to create a group to offer support to those who are feeling worried? Although we are being encouraged to limit face-to-face contact, you can still really help someone feel less anxious by being there to listen and providing a community of like-minded individuals.  

 5. Community support 

With your parent’s / carer’s / guardian’s approval, you could join a community support group to help with shopping or urgent supplies for a neighbour who is self-isolating (remember to follow guidance on social distancing and hand washing). You could help to source or donate items that are being requested by local organisations or participate in any other local campaigns to ensure others are well looked after. Older people living on their own may also be feeling lonely; why not call your elderly neighbour on a regular basis to keep them from feeling isolated. 

6. Check out ideas online! 

There are lots of virtual volunteering opportunities you can get involved in from home too; check out this website to pick something you’re passionate about, find charities providing remote volunteering opportunities or try out a distance volunteering opportunity with our Approved Activity Providers.  

Remember to always seek approval from your DofE Leader before changing activities.