Probably one of the best definitions of volunteering comes from Scottish Government:

‘Volunteering is the giving of time and energy through a third party, which can bring measurable benefits to the volunteer, individual beneficiaries, groups and organisations, communities, the environment and society at large. It is a choice undertaken of one’s own free will and is not motivated primarily for financial gain or for a wage or salary.’

Scottish Voluntary Sector Statistics 2010 (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations) reveal just how important volunteering is to the population and economy of Scotland:

• Between 2008-2009, an estimated 1.2 million adults were active in volunteering in Scotland

• These volunteers contributed over 131 million hours per annum of their time

• Volunteering in Scotland is worth an estimated £2.1 billion to the Scottish economy

Volunteers - people giving freely of their time to drive forward and provide vital services and activities – are central to not only the Third Sector but the public sector as well. A large percentage of small groups and organisations are run entirely by volunteers, and every community group, club, charity, social enterprise, - large or small - will include volunteers at committee or board level, even where paid staff manage the day to day running of services or activities.

Volunteering welcomes all kinds of people, celebrating their skills, experiences, and diversity along with their unique and individual contributions.

This section of the Community Toolkit will help your community group or organisation to:

• Form a structure that enhances your ability to involve volunteers

• Recognise volunteer support needs

• Recruit effectively

• Resolve challenges safely

The information in this section has been provided by Volunteer Centre Edinburgh.

Volunteering offers many benefits not only to the community but also to the individual who chooses to give their time and energy. Whether you are young or old, the impact you can make is profound and far-reaching. 

Types of Volunteering:

Regular Volunteering: This involves a commitment to volunteer on a regular basis for a specific amount of time or period. An example is being a volunteer advisor with Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), Befriending, Sports Coaching.

Flexible Volunteering: This type of volunteering allows you to contribute as and when you can, or even from home. Examples include updating websites or blogging, Helping at a foodbank, Serving meals, Fundraising.

One-off Opportunities: These are short-term volunteering opportunities such as helping out at sporting events, festivals and community events.

Internships: These enable you to learn specific skills through a structured program, such as working with the Wildlife Trust on an environmental project.

Mentoring: This involves sharing your experience and knowledge to help others, guiding them in their personal or professional journeys.

Being a Trustee: As a trustee, you will be involved in the governance and aims of a charity, ensuring it meets its goals and operates effectively.

Volunteering allows individuals to contribute positively to their community. By offering their time and skills, volunteers can support vulnerable people and animals, improve local environments, and provide a voice for those who might otherwise go unheard. 

Whether it's assisting at shelters, participating in environmental cleanups, or advocating for social causes on the local radio, volunteers have the power to create substantial change.

One of the most significant reasons to volunteer is the ability to support vulnerable groups. Volunteers can assist in shelters, provide companionship to the elderly, mentor at-risk youth, or help rehabilitate animals. These actions provide essential services that might otherwise be unavailable, offering care and compassion where it is needed most.

Environmental volunteering is an excellent way to give back to the planet. From planting trees and cleaning up parks to organising recycling programs and promoting sustainability, volunteers help preserve our natural resources and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.

Volunteers have the unique opportunity to amplify the voices of marginalised groups. Whether through advocacy, education, or direct support, volunteers can help raise awareness and bring attention to important issues, ensuring that everyone's story is heard and valued.

Volunteering is also an excellent opportunity for personal development. Volunteers can gain various skills, including communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills are not only beneficial for personal growth but also enhance employability and career prospects.

Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people and build lasting relationships. Working towards common goals fosters a sense of camaraderie and community spirit, creating bonds that often extend beyond the volunteering experience.

Volunteering offers unique benefits tailored to each stage of life:

Young People

• Learn new skills and expand their horizons.

• Increase awareness of local issues and events.

• Build confidence and self-esteem.

• Engage in multigenerational work, fostering respect and understanding.

Young Adults

• Gain skills for further education, apprenticeships, or employment.

• Access to free training such as customer service and technical skills.

• Contribute their expertise and creativity.

• Test and apply their learning in real-world situations.

Adults

• Make a difference and impact the lives of those around them.

• Find an interest outside of work or home.

• Share their skills and experiences with others.

Older Adults

• Share their wealth of knowledge and experience.

• Leave a lasting legacy in their community.

• Meet new friends with similar interests.

Volunteering is a powerful way to contribute to society, support those in need, improve the environment, and develop valuable skills. It enriches the lives of volunteers and those they help, creating a stronger, more connected community for all.