Volunteering is moving online. Not just through websites like do-it.org.uk that enable you to search and apply, but with opportunities that can actually be done from your computer at home or work.

Here at YouthNet (the charity behind do-it.org.uk) we have several volunteering opportunities that require you to come to our London offices only occasionally or not at all.

For up-to-date information on what's available, see the YouthNet website.

Journalists and bloggers

We're always looking for people to contribute YouthNet's websites: do-it.org.uk and TheSite.org.

For example, you could write a rant or diary for TheSite.org, or apply to be a blogger on do-it.org.uk.

If you've got some experience you could even write a full-length feature.

Karin Modig wrote several articles for do-it.org.uk. "Volunteering as a journalist has been a great opportunity for me to practise my skills," she says. "As well as writing for the website, I also learned about editing and publishing online. Plus, because it's flexible, I was able to carry on with my job as well."

Modding

TheSite.org also needs moderators to help run their popular Discussion boards.

Covering a wide variety of topics, the boards are a place for young people to share their experiences and make their views heard.

The role of a moderator is divided into two different areas: on the one hand making sure that inappropriate posts are dealt with, and on the other providing information and support to users.

As YouthNet's Communities Manager, Jim Valentine, explains, it's a great chance to develop your skills.

"Being a mod is all about being a facilitator," Jim says, "and the skills involved include being able to understand the views of others and defusing potentially inflammatory situations."

Peer advice

Another YouthNet project, askTheSite, also has online volunteering opportunities. However, for their peer advice project you do need to be able to come to training at our London office (and you must be 18-29 years old).

askTheSite deals with questions on different topics: sexual health, general health, mental health, housing, legal and rights, money and relationships issues. In a new pilot scheme, volunteers are being recruited and trained to answer questions in the relationships section.

It requires a reasonable time commitment - about 4-5 hours per week. But volunteers will gain new skills in web communication, web journalism and providing online advice as well as receiving a comprehensive training programme in online peer advice.

Not all of the opportunities listed in this article are available at all times. For the latest information go to the YouthNet website.

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