Why Winter Volunteering Matters

Over the winter months, I've been spending time visiting community groups and volunteers across the Highlands. It's made me reflect on just how important volunteering is at this time of year. As winter settles in across the Highlands, many people feel the season brings both challenges and opportunities. The colder months can make it harder for some to get out and about, and shorter days can leave communities feeling more isolated. this is when the difference made by volunteers can become especially important.

Winter volunteering helps to keep connections strong. It might be through helping at a local warm space, supporting a community lunch, or checking in on neighbours. Every small action helps someone feel seen and supported. Volunteers also have the opportunity to bring energy to local events and projects that lift community spirit during the darker months.

The season is also a time to pause, reflet and prepare for the year ahead. Many organisations use this period to plan new activities or explore training opportunities, and volunteers play a key part in shaping what comes next, so look out for new ways involved this winter on our volunteer opportunities page.

By giving time and care through winter, volunteers help ensure that kindness and connection continue to thrive across our communities.

Speaking to Volunteers:

Speaking with volunteers has been a reminder of the many different journeys that lead people into volunteering, and the impacts it can have both for individuals and their communities.

At New Start Highland (NSH), volunteers' reflections give a warm look at what taking part there feels like and the impact it has. one volunteer I spoke to said that NSH had a good atmosphere with good people. Another volunteer I spoke to had been volunteering with NSH working in their retail section for over 11 years! They had been referred to NSH to help with mental health issues and have found that they enjoy meeting new people from different walks of life and using their experience to help others who are struggling. Their message to anyone thinking of volunteering at NSH is "Go for it! This place runs on volunteers, and they are always welcoming new people."

I was also kindly invited to Wheels In Nairnshire's (WIN) monthly volunteer coffee meet. The key points shared by their volunteers were that they are motivated by wanting to help others and give something back to their community. They value the flexible nature of volunteering with WIN because they can choose the shifts that suit them. They also spoke about the social connection they enjoy with the people they drive, which makes every journey feel meaningful.

Events:

Aviemore Community Enterprise Company are putting on a Christmas Eve Procession starting at the Fire Station at 6pm sharp. They invite you to come in your best festive wear or even fancy dress. They have also put a call out for volunteers to collect donations along the way - get in touch if you would like to help out and get into the festive spirit.

Nairn Book and Arts Festival are hosting a community carol sing-a-long on Thursday 28th December at the Wallace Bandstand, Nairn Links. Carolers will be accompanied by Highland Brass and local singers. You're welcome to sing along, hum quietly or just take in the festive vibes - everyone's welcome!

If you'd like to find out more about volunteer opportunities in your area, or just have a chat about getting involved, please feel free to get in touch.

Wishing everyone a warm and peaceful festive break and thank you to all the volunteers who give their time and care throughout the year!

Iona MacPhee

iona.macphee@highlandtsi.org.uk

Volunteer Academy Development Officer