Finding Connection Through Community

People of all genders can feel disconnected at different stages of life.

Whether due to work, family changes, health challenges or social circumstances. But research and lived experience show that many men experience barriers to forming and maintaining close social connections, often because of cultural expectations around independence and emotional self-reliance, even more so as they get older.

One survey found that around 27% of men report feeling lonely frequently or always and that men are often less likely than women to seek support when they feel isolated or struggling emotionally. Although loneliness affects all people, this highlights how social norms can make it harder for men - and anyone socialised to downplay emotional needs - to reach out and build connection.

How does this connect with volunteering?

Volunteering isn’t just about giving time: it’s a structured way to meet people, develop friendships, feel valued and contribute to something bigger than ourselves. That sense of purpose and social contact can dramatically reduce feelings of isolation.

It creates social opportunities embedded in action rather than in direct emotional disclosure. Taking part in a shared activity can make opening up and forming bonds much easier.

And the benefits go both ways: recent UK data shows that volunteering isn’t just meaningful for volunteers, it’s vital for communities too. Many community services rely on volunteers to support people’s wellbeing and day-to-day lives.

One great example of this work in action are the Community Transport services run across the county by voluntary and community organisations.

They bring volunteers together to provide friendly transport services for people who find it hard to or cannot access public transport, particularly older people and those with health needs. But beyond the practical help of getting someone to a medical appointment or social group, these volunteer drivers often become one of few points of human interaction each week, offering moments of conversation, laughter and connection.

North Herts & Stevenage Centre for Voluntary Service (NHCVS) runs one such scheme and they will be hosting a special online talk on Thursday 26th February, called Transport for Connection, which explores how community transport can help combat loneliness and strengthen social bonds for both passengers and volunteers alike.

If you’re thinking about managing your own loneliness or want more connection, there are many ways to get involved depending on your interests and availability:

• Volunteer Driver – Offer journeys to people who need friendly support getting around; a perfect fit if you enjoy driving and meeting new people.
• Event Support – Help organise or run local community events, from talking to attendees to assisting with set up and running.
• Befriending and support roles – Be a regular friendly face for someone who’d appreciate companionship or help with errands.
• Online or remote volunteering — If getting out regularly is tricky, many organisations offer digital volunteering opportunities, including mentoring, monitoring helplines, admin support or if you're particularly experienced, a trustee role.

People of all genders need community, care and connection, and volunteering is one of the most accessible routes to build those things, especially for people who might not naturally seek out new social spaces.

If you’ve ever wondered whether volunteering could be right for you, maybe as a way to meet people, learn new skills, or simply make a difference — there’s likely a role out there that fits you.

Have a look at our current opportunities to see what matches your interests or skills - Volunteer in your community | GoVolHerts