Volunteer – Gov.UK
Find out on Gov.UK how to volunteer in your local community and give your time to help others.
The anatomy of loneliness
Who is lonely? The results of the world’s largest loneliness study
How helping others affects our brain
Research shows why it’s physically better for us to give than receive. Learn about what happens to your brain when you give.
How a sense of community belonging impacts the brain
An infographic illustrating the evidence on how belonging to a community positively impacts the brain
The relative influence of community participation on health
Does community participation influence our health? Discover the evidence from this 2014 study examining the effects of individual and social factors on health
Why community matters for health
This Gov.UK blog explains why communities are a fundamental resource for health and wellbeing. Also find links to the guide on community-centred approaches to health and wellbeing.
Volunteering and its surprising benefits
Volunteering can help you make friends, learn new skills, advance your career, and even feel happier and healthier. Learn how to find the right fit.
Social support for psychological health
Why is it important to have a strong social support network? What are the different types of social support? And what are the benefits on our health?
The importance of developing a support system
Research indicates that having a support system has many positive benefits. Find out more and get tips on how to develop your own
Why are strong personal relationships so important?
This article summarises the benefits of having strong relationships and how they contribute to a long, healthy, and happy life.