London offers a diverse array of volunteering opportunities for those looking to make a difference in their community. From animal welfare to food redistribution, environmental conservation to healthcare support, the city’s charitable sector caters to a wide range of interests and skills.
Here’s some of the most impactful charities you can volunteer for in London:
1. Volunteer Centre Hackney (VCH)
Volunteer Centre Hackney is a local organisation that connects volunteers with various opportunities in the Hackney area. They offer a wide range of volunteering options to suit different interests, skills, and time commitments. VCH works with numerous local charities and community groups, providing a central hub for those looking to make a difference in their community.
They are open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, making it convenient for people to drop in and explore volunteering options.
Address: Unit 13, Springfield House, 5 Tyssen St, London E8 2LY
2. Reach Volunteering
Reach Volunteering is a national charity that specializes in connecting skilled volunteers with non-profit organisations across London and the UK. They focus on matching professionals with specific expertise to charities that need their skills, whether it’s in areas like marketing, finance, IT, or strategic planning. This organisation is particularly useful for those looking to use their professional skills to make a meaningful impact.
Reach Volunteering operates Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Address: 7 Bell Yard, London WC2A 2JR
3. Volunteer London
Volunteer Londonlocated at City Hall, is a central resource for volunteering opportunities throughout the city. As part of the Mayor’s office, this organisation offers a diverse range of volunteering options across various sectors and causes. They work with numerous charities and public sector organisations to provide a wide array of volunteering opportunities suitable for different interests and time commitments.
Volunteer London is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Address: 5th Floor, City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2AA
4. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is one of London’s most well-known animal welfare charities. Operating since 1860 from Battersea, they care for over 7,000 animals each year. Volunteering opportunities here range from direct animal care to supporting events and administrative tasks. With over 1,200 volunteers across their three centres, Battersea offers a chance to make a real difference in the lives of animals. They have various roles available, from dog walking and cat socialisation to helping with fundraising events.
Address: 4 Battersea Park Rd, London SW8 4AA
5. The Feminist Library
The Feminist Library is a unique volunteer-run organisation that houses a large collection of feminist literature. Located in Peckham, it has been supporting research, activist, and community projects since 1975. Volunteers can contribute in various ways, including helping with the newsletter, developing the online catalogue, staffing the library during opening hours, and assisting with fundraising efforts. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in feminism, literature, and community engagement.
Address: 30 Keeton’s Rd, London SE16 4EE
6. Foodcycle
Foodcycle is a charity that serves meals made from reclaimed and surplus food to those who are hungry and lonely in the UK. With 11 locations across London, from Peckham to Marylebone, Islington, and Dalston, it’s easy to find a Foodcycle project near you. Volunteers can help with food collection, cooking, and hosting meals. This organisation not only addresses food waste and hunger but also provides a social space for community members to connect. Foodcycle serves over 1,400 people per week with the help of its volunteers.
Address: Foodcycle has multiple locations across London
