It’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, and this year the theme is moving for mental health. We’re sharing how you can boost your wellbeing by being active and volunteering at the same time.
Volunteering isn’t just about helping others—it can add so much to your life and wellbeing too. Add getting active to the mix and it can make even bigger changes to your wellbeing!
Cleaning up parks, leading activities, or lending a hand at events isn’t just good for the community—it’s good for your health too. Three-quarters of recent volunteers (75%) say volunteering improves their mental health and wellbeing, according to the National Council of Voluntary Organisations latest report.
Join a strong, supportive community while making a positive impact in the world. Let’s get moving and make a difference together!
Local volunteer roles
Here are just a handful of volunteer roles where you can be active, boost your mental wellbeing, and help others in Hackney at the same time.
Community Gardener
Are you a proud plant parent? Are you terrible at gardening but want to get outside and get active? Wherever you’re at, you can help care for vibrant community gardens on the Kingsmead Estate in Homerton.
Coach with KEEN London
KEEN London is working to make sure every child has the chance to enjoy games and leisure activities and none are left behind due to disability. Can you help? You’ll be helping run fun activity sessions for a few hours a month.
Conservation Helper
Help protect the River Lea and develop your conservation skills with Gasworks Dock Partnership. You’ll be taking part in fun activities like bat nights, tree planting, river safaris, bird watching, and more.
Parkrun Volunteer
Ignite a passion for fitness and fun in youngsters with London Fields Junior Parkrun. You’ll be part of a team of volunteers helping keep children safe during Parkrun on Sunday mornings.
Want to find out more about how volunteering can support your mental health? Listen to one of our volunteers speaking on East London Radio’s Mind Matters show! You can also read her story here.