2 people standing together, the first has a mid skin tone, long, pink, wavy hair and is pregnant. The other has a dark skin tone, their hair up and wrapped in a scarf and wears a hoop earring. They are carrying 2 shopping bags, as a volunteer delivering to the pregnant person.

Volunteering isn’t just about helping your community, it’s also about helping yourself. It can give you a sense of purpose, build your confidence and help you feel more connected with other people.

Whether you’re helping out once a week, joining a local event or offering your time more regularly, volunteering can:

  • boost your mood and self-esteem
  • reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation
  • give structure and meaning to your day
  • help you develop new skills
  • connect you with others in your community

You don’t need lots of time or experience to make a difference. There are many flexible opportunities in Leeds – from befriending or gardening to supporting a charity behind the scenes.

You might meet interesting people or discover new strengths. Volunteering can help you gain experience if you’re looking for work or thinking about a career change. It can also build your confidence in talking to people, taking on challenges, or using skills you already have.

If you’re not currently working, volunteering can help you get out of the house and into a regular routine. It can boost your self-esteem by giving you a sense of achievement and purpose. Giving your time to help others can even activate the brain’s reward system – lifting your mood and supporting better wellbeing.

If you volunteer in health or care

Volunteering might already be part of how you give to others – but looking after your own wellbeing matters too.

The West Yorkshire Staff Wellbeing Hub offers free, confidential mental health and wellbeing support for anyone working in health, social care, or the voluntary sector across West Yorkshire.

You can access:

  • emotional wellbeing resources
  • peer support and reflective spaces
  • fast-tracked mental health support from trained therapists

As the Hub will be closing at the end of March 2026, the last date they can accept referrals for one-to-one therapy will be 31 October 2025. People currently receiving therapy through the service will continue to the end of their planned sessions.

Visit the Hub website or speak to your manager if you’re not sure what’s available.