With summer just around the corner, you might be thinking about how to spend your time outside of lectures and library sessions. You might also have been out of luck so far with job placements and internships, and feel that your CV could use a little boost. Or, maybe you just want to connect with new people and find a new community in this vast London network...  

 

Whatever your reason is, volunteering can be the answer to all these questions! You can support the causes that matter to you, while making a real difference in your community and gaining experience in the charity sector, events management, customer service and more.  

 

Of course, there is no shortage of charities in London, but it’s always best to try and find one within your neighbourhood. That will help you be a more effective volunteer and reduce transport costs to get to your post. To help you get started, we've rounded up a list of amazing charities across London that are looking for student volunteers this summer, divided between North, East, West and South London!  

 

 

North London 

If you're staying in North London over the summer, consider joining North London Hospice, a charity dedicated to providing compassionate end-of-life care for people with terminal illnesses. Volunteers play a huge role in supporting patients and their families—whether by assisting with fundraising events, helping with their shops, or offering company to those receiving care. You can learn more about volunteering with North London Hospice here. 

Also in North London is Centre 404, a welcoming organisation that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and their families. They’re always on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers to assist with their Independent Living Centres, help with crafts, or lead sport sessions. If you’d like to get involved, check out their volunteer application form and see how you can contribute to their amazing community. 

 

 

East London 

Over in East London, the Refugee Council is doing vital work to support refugees and asylum seekers as they build new lives in the UK. Volunteers here can take on roles such as assisting clients with their appointments, tutoring English, or organising events. If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, head to their website to find out how to volunteer. 

Another East London gem is Tower Hamlets Friends and Neighbours (THFN), a charity committed to reducing loneliness and isolation among older people. Volunteer opportunities range from befriending visits to helping run social events or supporting with everyday errands. It’s a lovely way to connect with older members of the community and get top-tier, certified training. You can discover THFN’s volunteer roles here. 

 

 

West London 

Located in West London, The Felix Project is the largest London food redistribution charity. Volunteers help with everything from sorting donations to driving food deliveries, and it's an ideal role if you're looking for something active and hands-on. Want to join the fight against food waste? Find out how to volunteer with The Felix Project here. 

Also worth checking out is Action on Disability, an organisation that supports people with disabilities in living independent and empowered lives. Volunteer roles include helping with reception, filling out benefits forms, and attending events. If you’re passionate about accessibility and equality, learn more about getting involved here. 

 

 

South London 

Based in South London, the South London Refugee Association (SLRA) supports refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants through advocacy, mentoring, and community support. Volunteers can get involved in everything from casework assistance to running creative sessions or helping out in the kitchen. You can read more about volunteering with SLRA here. 

Another fantastic option is Lambeth Foodbank, which provides emergency food to people in crisis. Volunteers help sort donations, pack food parcels, and assist with distribution days. It’s a great way to make a direct and immediate impact. Check out how to get involved here. 

 

 

Get Involved, Make a Difference 

Volunteering doesn’t just help others—it can help you too. You’ll meet new people, build valuable skills, and gain experience that will look great on your future job applications. More importantly, you’ll be part of something bigger than yourself. 

 

If you’re looking for employment as a student, make sure to keep an eye on our Work with Us page: we always look for new student staff to join us, so stay on the lookout for new vacancies!