GIVE A LITTLE... GET A LOT!

Lose weight, reduce stress, live longer, feel fitter…and not an expensive nettle-tasting drink in sight!

According to research carried out by the journal 'Psychology Science,' all this and more can be achieved by something as simple and worthwhile as getting involved in volunteering in the community.

The main motivation for becoming a volunteer is often quite simply wanting to help other people, closely followed by wanting to try something new. Having a record of your experience as

a volunteer on your CV can be pretty useful as well. If you do decide that volunteering could be the thing for you then choosing the area which best suits your skills will be the next step.

Even within Northern Ireland the opportunities for volunteers of all skills or none are almost endless. Take the charity for the disabled, Leonard Cheshire (www.leonard-cheshire.org), for example. It has opportunities ranging from befriending to gardening to driving to helping set up a computer for someone at home. It also provides first class training and the support and guidance of a dedicated Volunteer Support Manager who is only a phone call away. Applications are welcome from both disabled and non-disabled volunteers from all sectors of the community.

Leonard Cheshire is only one of many volunteering opportunities to be found locally. Organisations such as the main cancer charities, the RNIB, Samaritans, RSPB and National Trust etc. all have opportunities if you have the time. The Volunteer Development Agency lists all volunteering opportunities in Northern Ireland on its website - www.volunteering-ni.org.

If you're still not sure if volunteering is for you then what about the 'Time to Read' initiative organised by Business in the Community? 'Time to Read' helps employers focus the skills of their employees on improving the basic skills, communication and self-esteem of  children aged 8-11 years old within a primary school setting. The PSNI supports the scheme by releasing employees to attend schools one morning each week where they help the children with fun reading activities while developing their confidence and skills in interacting with an adult. Currently 65 leading companies are involved with the programme in 63 primary schools across Northern Ireland.

Jill McCluskey will be visiting PRRT to meet with any clients interested in participating in the 'Time to Read' initiative. If you would like more information or would like to participate please contact our Information Officer on 9042 7788 before the end of May 2007.

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