Volunteering in retirement
Spending your time as a volunteer helps you stay active, connected & purposeful.
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New opportunities in later life
Volunteering in retirement is about more than giving your time – it’s about staying active, feeling connected, and continuing to make a difference. Whether you’re newly retired or enjoying later life, volunteering is a rewarding way to share your experience, meet new people, and stay involved with your community.
With GoVo, finding the right opportunity is simple. From flexible local roles to remote options you can do from home, there’s something to suit every lifestyle – making volunteering for over 60s and over 70s more accessible than ever. You’re in control of when, where, and how you choose to give back.
Why volunteering is perfect for retirement
Volunteering offers purpose, connection, and joy at every stage of life. For many, retirement opens up time to give back, and volunteering is the perfect way to use that time meaningfully.
Through volunteering, you can stay mentally active, meet like-minded people, and bring structure and fulfillment to your days. Many find that volunteering to meet people helps reduce isolation, boosts wellbeing, and offers a sense of belonging.
"After retiring, I wanted to stay active, I’m not one to sit around. I volunteer for lots of different organisations and groups in my community. My daughter suggested Royal Voluntary Service, and I’ve been a Volunteer Driver ever since."
John, a retired volunteer driver for the Leicester Royal Infirmary Transport Service
Volunteering ideas for retirees
There are so many ways to give back, connect, and make a difference through volunteering. With GoVo, you can choose between local, in-person opportunities or online and remote roles – perfect if you have mobility needs or prefer to volunteer from home.
Whatever your interests or abilities, GoVo helps over 60s and over 70s find nearby volunteering opportunities.
Examples of roles available on GoVo
- Companionship calls (over the phone, remote, or in-person visits) – Offer friendship and a listening ear to those who may be lonely or isolated.
- Community gardening – Help brighten local green spaces while enjoying fresh air and friendly company.
- Local library or charity shops – Support your community by lending a hand, meeting new people, and keeping active.
- Food bank support – Assist with sorting donations, packing parcels, or helping distribute essentials.
- Reading with children (online or in-person opportunity) – Share the joy of reading and help inspire the next generation.
How to volunteer in your local community
Looking for ways to give back close to home? GoVo makes it easy to discover roles and how to volunteer in your local community. Simply search by postcode or town, and explore opportunities that match your interests, skills, and availability.
You can filter roles by activity type, time commitment, accessibility, or location — so whether you’re looking for something weekly, seasonal, or one-off, you’ll find the right fit.
Not so mobile? You can volunteer from home too
If getting out and about isn’t easy, there are still plenty of ways to give back. GoVo offers flexible volunteering for seniors, including opportunities to make a difference right from your living room.
You can support charities by making wellbeing calls, helping with admin tasks, writing letters, tutoring, or mentoring online. It’s a great way to connect, contribute, and feel purposeful – all without leaving your home.
Getting started volunteering from home is simple – browse online roles, apply through GoVo, and begin making an impact at your own pace.
