There are many ways to get more involved in your local community in projects and initiatives that can enable you to make new friends, use your skills, get out and about and enjoy new experiences. Here, you can read about some of the ways you could get involved – then follow the links to the organisations' websites.
In Scotland, almost 50% of volunteers are aged over 50. Many find that volunteering helps them adapt to retirement after leaving work. For example, it keeps you active and makes you feel valued because you're helping others and using your skills. It can provide a structure for your time and give you exciting new opportunities to explore new avenues.
As well as the organisations listed here, many more provide volunteering opportunities, such as Age Concern Scotland, West of Scotland Seniors Forum and Alzheimer Scotland.
Youth Scotland
Would you like to help young people make the most of themselves? Youth Scotland provides inspiring leisure opportunities for young people. The organisation trains volunteer youth workers of all ages, who learn new skills to help equip them whilst supervising young people. This work can be challenging, but hugely rewarding too.
WRVS
You could make a big difference to the lives of older people who might otherwise feel lonely and isolated. Volunteers play a vital role in WRVS; nearly 60,000 men and women are making life better throughout communities, in homes, hospitals and during civil emergencies. The opportunities to be involved are very diverse – no matter how much time you have to spare.
Trees for Life
Would you like to help restore the ancient wild Caledonian Forest in the Highlands? Every year, volunteers of all ages and abilities join one of the award-winning organisation's conservation Volunteer Weeks. You could carry out vital work at the tree nursery near Glen Affric or help to plant tens of thousands of young trees at sites in the wild. Read the real life story of a volunteer.
Marine Conservation Society
Help protect our precious seas, shores and wildlife with the Marine Conservation Society (MCS). They run various volunteer projects for everyone, including beach cleans, divers' surveys and surveys of jellyfish, basking sharks and turtles. MCS campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries and protection for marine life.
Volunteer Scotland
If you want to discover the huge variety of opportunities for volunteering on your doorstep then Volunteer Scotland can help. This website enables you to search for local vacancies and connect with a range of organisations. Volunteer Centre Network is working hard to create a Scotland where everyone who wants to volunteer can do so, and you will be suprised at the choice of opportunities available.
