Archive Website of the UK government

Guide to volunteering for over 50s

Voluntary organisations recognise that older people bring a wealth of skills and expertise to volunteering. By passing on your skills and learning you can make a difference to people’s lives. Volunteering is also a good way to make new friends and improve general levels of health and fitness.

• Volunteering for the over 50s

Learning for fun

Learning can be fun and a great way to relax and socialise. It doesn't have to be formal and you don't have to learn for a qualification. Free courses are easy to find and if you're learning just for fun, you can choose anything you find interesting.

• Learning for leisure (education and learning section)

Guide to leisure pursuits for over 50s

If you're over 50 you may have more time for your favourite leisure activities. Or you may be looking for a new interest or activity to enjoy in your spare time.

Working part-time after you retire

Reaching State Pension age doesn't mean you have to give up work - paid or voluntary. You can choose to keep on working while taking your State Pension entitlement, or delay your claim and get paid more later on.

• Working part-time after you retire (money, tax and benefits section)

More useful links

• Learning to suit your lifestyle (education and learning section)

• UK public appointments (government, citizens and rights section)

Useful contacts

• Retirement contacts

• Financial advice and support contacts

• Over 50s contacts