An inside look at being a flexible volunteer

Read how Ann makes flexible volunteering work for her

20 January 2025

Volunteering for Girlguiding can be doing small things like helping with paperwork, chaperoning on trips or planning fun activities for girls.

Ann is a volunteer in North East England who has been described as 'invaluable' by her unit leader. A unit leader is a volunteer who gives up their time to run a local Girlguiding group. That means running meetings with girls, overseeing finances and admin and supporting other volunteers. But that's just one role in Girlguiding! There are lots of roles you can do even if you don't have much time to spare.

The things I do to help can be done at any time to suit me.' - Ann, volunteer.

How to volunteer with us when you don't have much time to spare

Watch the video below to find out more.

Register to volunteer

Give the time you want to give and register to volunteer with us today

Hear how Ann volunteers her time flexibly so that it works around her personal lifestyle.

How do you currently volunteer with Girlguiding?

I don't go to unit meetings unless they need another leader, but I help a lot with the preparation for the meetings such as shopping, banking and preparing equipment. I also help with fundraising and go on outings as an extra leader when needed.

How do you balance volunteering with your personal life?

The things I do to help can be done at any time to suit me. Because I'm retired, it's easy to fit it in with hobbies and other commitments. Being involved in guiding also helps my mental health.

Have you learned anything from volunteering?

Over the years, I've gained confidence and through going to trainings I've learned a lot of new skills. It has helped my time management. Continuing to volunteer after I stopped running a unit has kept me up to date with the current programme. The programme is the activities and badges girls do with their unit.

Any tips or tricks for new volunteers?

Make sure the volunteering you do fits in with your life. Plan ahead and keep some quick activities up your sleeve. Don't take on too much. Have fun!

Give the time you want to give

No matter how big or small your contribution, all volunteering helps keep our units running and gives girls amazing experiences to prove they can do anything. Are you ready to start your volunteering journey with Girlguiding?

Find the right volunteer role for you

Check out the different roles available then register your interest to volunteer