At Blackpool Polar Bears, we know that volunteering isn’t just about giving your time or helping others—it’s about finding joy, purpose, and fulfilment. Volunteering can make a real difference in the lives of our swimmers and have a profound impact on the lives of our volunteers.

Here are some of the many ways volunteering can bring happiness and positive change into your life:

1. Creating Meaningful Connections

Volunteering brings people together, creating strong bonds and a sense of community. When you volunteer, you meet people from all walks of life, each with their own stories, experiences, and perspectives. These interactions can foster deep and lasting friendships built on shared goals and the desire to make a difference. For many volunteers, the relationships they build are one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience.

2. Boosting Mental Wellbeing

Helping others has a powerful effect on mental health. Studies show that volunteering can reduce stress, combat depression, and improve mood. Giving—whether it’s your time, energy, or support—triggers the release of endorphins, often called "the happiness hormones." Knowing that your actions contribute to something bigger than yourself can lead to a sense of satisfaction and personal achievement that lifts your spirits and brightens your outlook on life.

3. Developing New Skills

Volunteering offers an excellent opportunity to learn new skills or build on existing ones. Whether assisting swimmers, managing events, or helping with administration, each volunteer role provides valuable experiences that can boost your confidence and enhance your abilities. These skills enrich your personal development and can also be helpful in your professional life, opening up new opportunities and enhancing your CV.

4. A Sense of Purpose

Sometimes, life can feel a little directionless, especially during challenging times. Volunteering gives you a clear sense of purpose. Knowing that your efforts are directly contributing to the well-being and success of others can provide a renewed sense of focus and motivation. For our volunteers at Blackpool Polar Bears, supporting swimmers to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals is a truly rewarding experience that instils a strong sense of purpose.

5. Making a Tangible Difference

One of the greatest joys of volunteering is knowing that your actions have a real impact. At Blackpool Polar Bears, every volunteer plays an essential role in the success of our swimmers and the club as a whole. Whether helping someone get into the water for the first time or supporting them to achieve a personal milestone, your contribution makes a direct and lasting difference in their lives. This accomplishment can be profoundly fulfilling and bring a profound sense of joy.

6. Increased Empathy and Compassion

Volunteering allows you to see the world through the eyes of others. Working with people from different backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives helps develop empathy and understanding. It teaches you to appreciate the unique challenges and triumphs of others and that a deeper connection to humanity can lead to a greater sense of compassion in your everyday life. Many volunteers find that this empathy enhances their relationships and brings meaning to their daily interactions.

7. Having Fun While Giving Back

Let’s not forget one of the most important benefits—volunteering is fun! Whether you’re cheering on swimmers, participating in events, or working behind the scenes, fun’s always involved. At Blackpool Polar Bears, our volunteers enjoy being part of a vibrant and positive community where every session is filled with laughter, encouragement, and a shared sense of achievement. Volunteering is about giving back, but it’s also about enjoying the journey and celebrating the moments along the way.

Conclusion
Volunteering isn’t just about what you give—it’s about what you gain. The happiness of helping others, building connections, and making a difference can’t be measured. At Blackpool Polar Bears, we see firsthand the positive impact of volunteering on our swimmers and volunteers.

Polar Bears Volunteering

We actively encourage parents, carers, and friends to support our activities. There are four types of volunteer roles, and individuals may take on one or more of these roles depending on their knowledge, skills, and experience:

• General Volunteer: This role involves supporting the club's running through various activities. General volunteers do not teach, train, or instruct members, nor do they provide personal care to club members (unless they are the recognised carer of the member).

• Adult Escort: This role involves supervising members during competitions and social events. Adult escorts do not teach, train, or instruct members, nor do they provide personal care to club members (unless they are the recognised carer of the member).

• Helper in the Water: This role involves assisting club members to participate in swimming activities. Responsibilities may include helping members get in and out of the pool and fitting swimming aids. Helpers are also responsible for appropriately preventing harm or injury during swimming activities. Volunteers must obtain the "Helper in the Water" training certificate to undertake this role.

• Teacher/Coach: This role involves providing swimming instruction, training, and coaching to club members. Volunteers must hold a recognised coaching qualification to perform this role.

All volunteers are subject to DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks to confirm their suitability for working with children and vulnerable adults, in line with the requirements of affiliated organisations.