The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) is recruiting volunteers in West Cork to offer practical help and bring dignity to people experiencing poverty and hardship. Volunteering with SVP is flexible, rewarding and rooted in local need, from visiting people who request help, to assisting in shops and supporting community projects.

Sinéad Donnelly Hickey, a local SVP volunteer, said: ‘I signed up to volunteer with St Vincent de Paul to give something back to my town, but I didn’t realise how much it would give back to me. Over ten years, a few hours a week has brought friendships, purpose, and real belonging. Each week our conference listens, plans, and acts so local people get practical help when it matters most. ‘Home visits are at the heart of SVP. Sitting at a kitchen table, you hear the real story behind a phone call. Together we find a way forward with practical support, information, or simply reassurance. Volunteering changes you, as you discover your strengths and see how small acts of kindness add up across the county.’

SVP is inviting people in every community to get involved and make a real difference. If you can spare even a little time each week, SVP will match your skills and availability to where you’re needed most in Cork, whether that’s offering a friendly listening ear on home visits, helping customers in our shops, or lending your expertise to community projects.

Visit svp.ie/volunteer or free text ‘SVP’ with your name and county to 50100.