A New Year’s Resolution That Changes Lives
As 2026 begins, Michael Kitching (Voluntary Norfolk’s CEO) asks us all to consider a New Year’s resolution that really matters: Volunteering.
As we look ahead to 2026, many of us will be thinking about New Year’s resolutions. This year, I’d like to suggest one that can bring more purpose, balance, and joy into our lives while making a real difference to others. That is of course volunteering.
The voluntary, community and social enterprise sector across Norfolk is under growing pressure. Ongoing funding cuts to local councils mean charities and community groups are being asked to do more with less, just as demand for their services continues to rise. Community organisations are stepping in where public services are stretched in so many ways: tackling isolation; supporting wellbeing; helping people stay active and connected. Volunteers are the lifeblood of this work, and their contribution has never been more critical, but sadly volunteering numbers nationally are dropping.
We of course recognise that for a lot of people life is busier than it has ever been. Many are balancing work, caring for ageing parents, supporting grandchildren, or managing complex family responsibilities. That’s why volunteering today looks very different from the one-size-fits-all model of the past. Through Voluntary Norfolk’s Get InVOLved portal, you’ll find a wide range of opportunities that fit around modern life. Whether you want something regular or are completely flexible, there’ll be opportunities that work for you.
What does volunteering involve?
And volunteering doesn’t have to mean sitting in a meeting or making endless cups of tea. There are amazing roles across the county. For example, in Norwich, you could volunteer with a community arts or culture project, helping to run creative workshops or events that bring people together and give local voices a platform. In Great Yarmouth, there are exciting opportunities to get involved in coastal and environmental projects — from beach clean-ups and conservation activities to supporting outdoor wellbeing sessions by the sea. Meanwhile, in Swaffham, volunteers are needed to help organise and deliver community events and pop-up activities that turn public spaces into places where people connect, celebrate, and feel proud of where they live.
Whether you’re keen to learn new skills, meet new people, get outdoors, or simply try something completely different, there will be a role that suits you. Some opportunities ask for a regular commitment, while others let you dip in and out when time allows. The latter are perfect if your availability changes from month to month.
Volunteering strengthens communities, supports vital local services, and often brings unexpected benefits to those who take part. These range from increased confidence and skills to friendships and fresh perspectives.
So as 2026 begins, why not make a resolution that really counts? Visit the Get InVOLved portal, explore what’s happening near you, and take the first step. Your time, energy, and curiosity could help shape a stronger Norfolk for everyone.
