Ordinary extraordinary people: 5 reasons to lend your time and expertise to Cystic Fibrosis Trust

Since we formed in 1964, volunteers have been a vital addition to our organisation and are a huge benefit to the cystic fibrosis (CF) community through the time that they donate and the knowledge and expertise they offer to the Trust. 

However you choose to volunteer, you’ll be making a massive difference to our community – and uniting with us for a life unlimited for everyone with CF. 

Find out more about volunteering at the Trust

Here are five reasons why you should consider volunteering for Cystic Fibrosis Trust… 

1. It’s good for your mental health 

COVID-19 brought with it lots of feelings of isolation and stress. What better way to combat those feelings than to give back to your community? Research shows that people who volunteer become happier over time, are more satisfied with their lives, and rate their overall health as better, compared to people who don’t volunteer.  

And not only is it associated with better wellbeing, but also a positive change in wellbeing – meaning volunteering makes you feel better, even if you don’t feel great when you start! 

I loved being part of the cheer crew! It was so moving seeing people run or walk in support of something or someone close to them. And it was really exciting spotting someone in a Cystic Fibrosis Trust vest because you could let all your cheer out! I love cheering.

- Angie, who volunteered as cheer crew for the Trust at the London Marathon 

2. It looks great on your CV 

Making your CV stand out while competing with all the other applicants can be hard work. But adding a stint of volunteering to your CV can be a great way to do just that! Hiring managers are looking for passionate, determined, proactive people – so show future employers you’re just what they’re looking for with your volunteering experience. 

3. You’ll meet new people 

Studies have shown that in some ways, modern life is making us lonely. So volunteering is a great way to make meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. A study by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations showed that 89% of volunteers said they’d met new people through volunteering, and 78% of people agreed their volunteering had through them into contact with people from different backgrounds. So, your volunteering experience could help you expand your worldview, have life-changing conversations, or even meet your new best friend! 

As I had two cousins with CF, I wanted to volunteer on a more personal basis. Volunteering is a very positive experience; I get to meet a variety of interesting people and it gives me an opportunity to give something back after a long career in corporate banking. 

- Margaret, who volunteers in our People & Organisational Development team 

4. You’ll gain new skills – or develop existing ones 

Volunteering is a great way to add some new skills to your set. Trust volunteers are supported with an induction, learning and support to make sure you’re set up for a successful and enjoyable experience. Whether you choose to support us by fundraising at events, helping out with admin at Head Office, or providing your time virtually from the comfort of your own home, volunteering is a great way to improve skills like communication, teamwork and organisation, as well as making you feel more confident. 

But it’s also a great way to put your existing skills to good use! 28% of volunteers say they were motivated to volunteer as an opportunity to use their skills. This is particularly true for people who are retired or otherwise not in work. So, no matter what stage you’re at in life, you can get satisfaction and fulfilment from your volunteering experience. 

I chose to volunteer for Cystic Fibrosis Trust initially to raise funds and awareness. I organised two large-scale events and aimed to do more. When the pandemic hit and large events weren't possible, I used my background in publishing to lend a hand to the comms and marketing team. I would thoroughly recommend volunteering with the Trust; not only are they an absolutely wonderful bunch of people, but you get to help out a great cause and it looks great on your CV! I've been lucky enough to work on some amazing campaigns and projects and can't wait to see what comes next! 

- Lian, who volunteers in our Marketing team 

5. You’ll make a difference to the lives of people with cystic fibrosis 

Most importantly, volunteering with Cystic Fibrosis Trust helps to make a difference where it really matters. However you choose to support us, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself – and make an impact to the entire cystic fibrosis community. 

I really enjoy volunteering at events, it is such good fun and I get to meet lots of lovely, inspirational people who are fundraising for the Trust. 

- Michelle, who volunteers at challenge events like London Marathon and Born Survivor and runs one of our local branches 

You can find out more about volunteering at the Trust here. 

Got questions about volunteering? Get in touch with our volunteering team at [email protected]. 

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. It affects more than 10,800 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing. 

Since 1964, we've supported people with cystic fibrosis to live longer, healthier lives -and we won’t stop until everyone can live without limits imposed by CF.