Day 29 of #30Days30WaysUK looks at the benefits of volunteering in your local community.

Working as a police special, a mountain rescue or RNLI volunteer or even being a first responder in your local area as a volunteer is a powerful way to connect with others, give back, and build resilience in your community.

Whether you’re new to an area or have lived there for years, it’s a chance to meet people, learn new skills, and make a real difference. Volunteering with the Lancashire Volunteer Partnership (LVP) offers individuals a meaningful way to contribute to public services while enhancing your skills and wellbeing.

Whether you're looking to give back to your community, build confidence, stay mentally active, or enhance your CV, LVP provides a single gateway into public service volunteering across Lancashire.

Jo Latham, LVP Manager, said: "Volunteers can choose from diverse roles including supporting individuals in the community; supporting older people or those with disabilities; helping in libraries and museums; gardening and youth engagement. These opportunities not only allow individuals to share or gain new skills, but also help fill employment gaps, connect with like-minded people and learn about different cultures and values.

"Beyond individual benefits, LVP plays a vital role in strengthening Lancashire's community resilience. It actively supports the Lancashire Resilience Forum by coordinating volunteers for emergency preparedness exercises, such as Rest Centre and Survivor Reception Centre simulations.''

If you are interested in volunteering, please visit www.lancsvp.org.uk to find out more about volunteering opportunities across Lancashire.