Annete , 22 I have done some voluntary work with homeless cats in the past. There are a lot of cats that people just put out on the streets and it's really sad, but it took up too much time really, and I felt that I was being used a bit. It was nice to feel like I did something to help, though - it makes you feel good about yourself to do something for free.

Even, 21 I volunteered in the states for a few hunger-task-force programmes, feeding the homeless. I did it partly because there's a lot of awareness of these problems and it's a thing that most people tend to do. More people should volunteer, but there's an attitude that nobody seems to help them so why should they help others.

Beth, 20 I did the Community Volunteer System and I worked for a drama day centre, helping the children make their play and help decorate and perform. I enjoyed it because I did it with my best friend, and they gave us chocolate cake at the end - that's how we got paid!

Manuel, 24 I don't make a big contribution, but every little helps. I volunteer as a fundraiser for a charity because I think we need to help people in need.

Lulu, 21 A lot of people don't realise how useful volunteering is to get in touch with others. I was a researcher, collecting data and sending out questionnaires and I got to learn from other people. Money is important, but many people ignore that without money they can still do a lot of things. To do simple things for those who need help is a good deal.

Omar, 19 When I was younger in school I visited a local elderly home, collected money and donations for gifts at Christmas. I enjoyed it because I was missing lessons while doing it, but it was also good to see the old people get so happy about it.

Xiaoxuan, 20 Volunteering is important for young people to accumulate experiences. I did a reception for freshers because I joined my university in the second year and I wanted to get to know the new students as they have a lot of fun and are very active. I picked up students at the stations and described the surroundings to them as they wanted to know more about the university.