If you cannot find work or are not allowed to work you can volunteer instead. There are a wide range of voluntary opportunities across the country.

Volunteering means giving your time for free to a worthwhile cause. You sometimes get your travel and food expenses paid, but this is not always the case.

People volunteer for many different reasons, such as:
- To meet new people
- To learn and build new skills
- To give something back to the community
- To feel valued and appreciated
- To make a difference

It is also a great way to improve your English, build confidence, experience and new skills, which can make it easier for you to find employment. In some situations volunteering can lead to paid work.