Why Autumn is the perfect time to start volunteering in West Devon
Dawn Todd from West Devon CVS returns to explain how ‘empty nesters’ can fill their empty hours by helping their local community, and find a sense of purpose through volunteering
As children return to school after the summer holiday or pack their bags and set off to university, many parents find themselves facing a quieter house and an empty space in their daily routine.
While this transition might feel challenging for some, it also presents an opportunity: the chance to connect with the local community through volunteering.
For many parents adjusting to an empty nest, volunteering can provide something that is often missing after a major life change: a renewed sense of purpose.
Across England, volunteering remains one of the most powerful ways to strengthen communities while improving personal wellbeing.
Research from the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) found that 77 per cent of volunteers reported improvements in their mental health and wellbeing through volunteering.
The same study found that nearly nine in ten volunteers said they had met new people through their volunteering activities, highlighting the important role it can play in reducing social isolation and building friendships - benefits which are particularly important at a time when loneliness and social disconnection are recognised as significant public health concerns.
Community Engagement Coordinator with West Devon Community and Voluntary Services (CVS), Dawn Todd, says: "People regularly tell me how much they enjoy their volunteering roles.
Whether helping at the local food bank, supporting a community garden, befriending the elderly or organising events, volunteers find that giving time to others benefits themselves as much as it does the people and organisations they are supporting."
Many parents have valuable skills gained from years of organising family life, managing budgets and coordinating activities and they often find they have a few extra hours during the school day that could be used to make a meaningful difference locally.
Dawn continues: "Even a few hours each month can create a positive impact in your community.
“Many organisations offer flexible volunteering roles that can fit around work, family life and other interests.
There are lots of opportunities in the local communities across West Devon and I can help people find a role that suits their interests and availability."
As autumn begins and families settle into new routines, this is the ideal time to get involved and discover a fresh sense of purpose.
Dawn Todd has written a number of volunteer profiles for The Moorlander, and these can be found on her author profile here.
Contact [email protected] to find out about local volunteering opportunities to suit you.