Volunteering
Volunteering has the power to make an impact on both society and our wellbeing and offers opportunities to gain new skills and experience. People make vital contributions to Scotland’s volunteering effort every day giving their time, energy and commitment to make things better for those who volunteer and those who gain from that support.
Co-produced with partners in the third sector, we published Scotland's Volunteering Action Plan (‘the plan’) in June 2022. Its aim is to support people to volunteer throughout their lives. The plan seeks to increase participation and reduce barriers to volunteering. Volunteer Scotland are leading the implementation of the plan and aim to raise the profile of volunteering and its impact on society.
The plan acknowledges the reach of volunteering and the vital role of volunteers in the delivery of services across Scotland. It provides a focus on tackling inequality within volunteering such as reducing barriers to volunteering and increasing access for under-represented groups.
We encourage the use of the Volunteer Charter which sets out 10 best practice principles that provide the foundations for a good volunteer experience.
If you would like help to volunteer or to find organisations in your area please get in touch with your local Third Sector Interface (TSI) who will be happy to offer you advice about volunteering. They are in each area of Scotland: one for each local authority. Find your local TSI details in the TSI directory.
There are thousands of charities across the country who are looking for volunteers to get involved and make a difference. You may wish to get in touch with charities that interest you or you can search for current volunteering opportunities.