This section describes the positive experiences people can have from meeting people they would not otherwise meet. Where this happens and how it is supported are really important.

Read about how expenses, time and feeling you belong can reduce the number of volunteers that you have and how long they stay.

See which principles may support your volunteering and build social cohesion at the same time.

Find out more about how linking capital is critical to the development of communities. Through the connections made by linking with local authorities, health, police and other service providers it makes communities more resilient and safer.

The Bridging section explores the connections between communities which are separated by divisions such as race, class, or religion. Is also discusses how this helps individuals gain social mobility, power, and new opportunities.

This section describes the connections within a group or community. It discusses how this can be really good for building connections between people, but also has dangers for social cohesion.

Find out more about the benefits of building social capital connected to volunteering.

Local data is vital for understanding your area. This unit helps you source the most relevant data for your area.

Explore the connections you have locally through your volunteering and consider ways to expand the diversity of your volunteers.