University life can be a bit of a rollercoaster. From juggling deadlines to adjusting to new surroundings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s something you might not have thought of: volunteering. Volunteering isn’t just about helping others (though that’s a big part of it!). It’s also an amazing way to boost your mental health, meet new people, and even help the planet.
At Derwent Students, we’re big believers in the power of volunteering. That’s why, alongside our parent company, Places for People, we’ve been working to promote volunteering opportunities that not only benefit students but also help build stronger, more sustainable communities. As a social enterprise, PfP leads by example, with its many community-focused initiatives and commitment to creating social value. Whether it’s supporting a food bank, organising local clean-up events, or helping students connect with meaningful volunteer roles, PfP inspires us to go further in encouraging you to get involved.
How Volunteering Can Boost Your Mental Health (and More!)
1) Make Friends and Feel Connected
Let’s be honest - uni can feel lonely sometimes. Volunteering gives you the chance to meet people, work as a team, and feel part of a community. Whether you’re organising an event or planting trees, being surrounded by like-minded people can do wonders for your mood.
Fun fact: Studies show that people with strong social connections tend to feel less stressed and more positive.
2) Feel Good About What You’re Doing
There’s something amazing about knowing you’ve made a difference, no matter how small. Helping out with local projects, especially ones that tackle sustainability like reducing food waste, can give you a real sense of purpose - and a big confidence boost!
3) Learn New Skills Without Even Realising It
Volunteering is a great way to pick up skills like teamwork, organisation, or even how to run a social media campaign. Plus, if you’re volunteering for eco-friendly projects, you’ll naturally start learning more about sustainable living. Bonus: these skills look great on a CV, too!
4) Stress Less and Be Present
Sometimes, taking a break from your own worries and focusing on something bigger is the best way to reset. Volunteering - whether you’re sorting donations or helping out at a food drive - can be a great way to practise mindfulness and reduce stress.
5) Help Build a Better, More Sustainable Future
Volunteering isn’t just about the here and now. It’s about creating lasting change, for yourself and for your community. Whether you’re helping save food from waste or supporting a biodiversity project, every small act adds up to something bigger.
How to Get Started
Getting into volunteering is easier than you might think:
· Find What Sparks Your Interest: Love the environment? Try a beach clean-up or tree planting. Prefer helping people? Look into mentoring or food redistribution projects.
· Start Small: Even an hour or two a week can make a big difference.
· Join a Local Initiative: Your uni or accommodation team might already have projects in place - ask around!
· Bring Your Skills to the Table: Good at organising? Love getting creative? There’s a volunteering role out there for you.
What We’re Doing at Derwent Students
Working closely with Places for People, we’ve been promoting the value of volunteering through local events, community partnerships, and on-site initiatives. Recent efforts include helping students at Cambridge and Herts find meaningful volunteering roles and hosting group events at AUB to connect students with local causes.
PfP’s community-first approach is a big inspiration for what we do. Their projects consistently show how small acts of volunteering can have a ripple effect, benefiting individuals and communities alike. Whether it’s addressing social isolation, enhancing green spaces, or tackling food insecurity, PfP demonstrates the power of people coming together to create lasting change.
And it’s not just about helping others – it’s about helping you feel good, too. Together with Student Minds, we’re here to show how small actions can lead to big impacts, both for your mental health and the planet.
A Word from Student Minds
Volunteering is an excellent way to stay engaged, connect with others, and make a positive impact in your community. By giving your time to help a cause you care about, you can boost your mood, build your confidence, and gain a real sense of achievement. It is also a fantastic opportunity to develop new skills, enhance your CV, and meet like-minded people who share your interests and values.
Whether you are helping out through your Students’ Union, joining a university volunteering programme, or exploring opportunities with local or national charities, volunteering can make a real difference, not just to others, but to your own mental health and wellbeing.
Looking for more ways to support your wellbeing or advice on where to start? Visit Student Space for free resources, tips, and guidance.
Final Thoughts
Volunteering is an incredible way to look after yourself, make connections, and give back - all at the same time. Whether you’re helping the environment or supporting a local initiative, every little bit helps.
Let’s build a community that cares - for each other and the planet.
Author: Amy Daniels, Marketing Executive
I accompanied my daughter to her new accommodation in Brunswick House. We were welcomed very warmly by the staff who provided us with a lot of useful information. As part of their hospitality, the company offered free drinks and food. The room is very clean and comfortable. The kitchen is also very clean. I was allowed to park the car inside to help move my daughter's stuff.Salvatore Petrone, Parent, Brunswick House
