Voluntary work 'can build confidence through a sense of accomplishment'

People who decide to take a gap year abroad to undertake voluntary work can gain a number of personal benefits from their time.

Shell-Lee Wert, writing for the Intelligencer, said that volunteers can gain new confidence which comes from a great sense of personal achievement by helping those that are in need.

Many volunteers encounter a variety of new challenges, which enable them to share experiences with other people and learn fresh skills which can be useful later in life.

"There is no better place to meet like-minded individuals than through volunteering for an organisation or cause you believe in. Working together to bring about a change is a great way to bond with others and become part of a community," she added.

Sally Hutchinson, Bolton area manager for charity shop Scope, said that people who undertake voluntary work will find it includes developing new practical and people skills which can enhance job prospects.

Find out about gap year benefits.

( Last Updated: 2010-02-08 20:27:15)