If the slog of study sometimes leaves you a little dazed, a break from the routine might be just what you need...

There are many projects taking place in the Portsmouth area that need enthusiastic and capable volunteers to make them work. One day you could be building a play area for a children’s group; another time you might be helping to do the accounts for a charity or in the woods landscaping.

You don’t have to commit to more than you want - just put your name down in the pool of volunteers and we'll do the rest; our Partnership with the Portsmouth Volunteer Bureau help you find what you are looking for.

Volunteering is not just helping people who need it; you get the chance to try new things and receive training, apply your existing skills or help out for a cause you believe in.

The bonding that comes from being part of an active team means that you can make a lot of good friends, not to mention valuable contacts in public bodies and organisations. You can take it as far as you want to go, or just come along for a fun day out.

For more information, see www.upsu.net/vip