Thousands of young people, people with disabilities and those experiencing loneliness will get the opportunity to volunteer and help others thanks to a £4.6m investment.
More than 160 community organisations will be able to support 7,800 new volunteering opportunities over the next two years as the government confirms the beneficiaries of the Volunteering Futures Fund.
The fund was launched last year and will be distributed by Arts Council England (ACE).
Culture secretary Nadine Dorries said: ‘Volunteering offers a wealth of benefits to those involved and the organisations which rely on the help. ‘Our new support will deliver a step-change for those who may be isolated, lonely or experiencing any number of potential barriers to getting involved in volunteering.’
Darren Henley, CEO of Arts Council England said: ‘There’s an abundance of evidence to show that volunteering can be a key factor in helping people lead happier lives.
‘This new investment will enrich villages, towns and cities across England, increasing health and well-being and decreasing loneliness and isolation.’
