Talking Point: How can taking part in volunteering benefit young people?

Competition for jobs is always fierce, but with just under one million 16- to 24-year-olds not in education, employment or training, finding a job is a challenge for many of today's young people. Volunteering could be just the ticket to make young people stand out to employers. Back in March, the benefits of volunteering were given national recognition when the government announced £6m of funding for young people to take part in community volunteering pilot schemes.

Start a discussion about volunteering. What do young people know about it? How is volunteering perceived among young people? Is there a certain stigma attached to it? Why? Talk about the benefits of volunteering: learning different skills; meeting new people; building self-esteem; and getting personal satisfaction through helping others are all part of volunteering. What practical skills can be gained? Discuss how volunteering can teach young people about building relationships and managing projects. Consider how volunteering shows commitment and initiative. Why might these valuable skills be attractive to prospective employers?