Love being outdoors? Love your local woodland? Join the Mauldslie Woods Volunteering Team. Come along and carry out a variety of practical woodland conservation and management tasks, whilst having fun, learning new skills and meeting new people. The group meet on Mauldslie Bridge in Carluke at 10.15am and the group runs until 3.00pm. Dates for 2020 here: http://www.locator.org.uk/events/mauldslie-woods-volunteer-team

We are a young democratically run organisation that needs to grow. At the moment we are a small group working at projects that reduce waste and we intend that Aberdeen and Shire become zero waste areas. That is, that everything we use becomes part of a circular economy and is not discarded needlessly to be tipped or burned. Currently, our main projects are :- *Go Green Café *Trash to Treasure *Men's Sheds *Planting Fruit Trees for Community Benefit These worthy projects are undertaken alongside family and work commitments but we need to do more if we are to make inroads to the waste we generate each day. That presents exciting opportunities for volunteers. Our next step then, is for more 'Trustees' to join with us to take on an officer of the board role, or to become an ordinary member and help steer the way forward to a successful reduction of waste to zero. If you’re/for more information then please do get in touch with Brian Allan at email brianaltenscc2@gmail.com or tel.: 07751275757.

We are keen to create a community garden space and are looking for people interested in gardening, willing to learn or to teach. Want to be part of a social group, have fun and not afraid of having your hands dirty? This is an opportunity for you then! Things you would do: *Planting flowers, plants, vegetables, trees. *Making areas with bird houses, feeding trays *Keeping the place tidy. *Putting nice ornaments in place. *Sourcing benches for people to sit and relax *Watering the plants *Coming up with ideas to make the place look nice *Hanging baskets around the centre *Making our grounds look nice, tidy, colourful People would meet on Tuesday, but feel free to come any day as the garden will require attention everyday. This is a great opportunity to learn/teach how to garden, spend time outside, meet new people. All volunteers are greatly appreciated and provided with excellent support. Please contact us to find out how you can help, join our fantastic team of volunteers and make a real difference in the community: Email: volunteerinchgarth@gmail.com / Tel: 01224 325191 / Website: http://www.inchgarth.org/

At Duthie Park you will have the opportunity to work at one of best purposely designed gardens in Scotland. Opportunities can either be inside the famous Winter Gardens or outside in the Park. You will be given the opportunity to help out with the day to day maintenance of the gardens, planting and there will also be an opportunity to learn more about the history and heritage of the Park. An ideal opportunity for those who are interested in a change in career, want to learn more about gardening or those who enjoy the outdoors, gardening or want to be a bit more active. You will be made to feel very welcome as we are a very friendly, dynamic group and greatly appreciate help that volunteers give. This is a great, enjoyable opportunity to help in the local community and be involved in assisting in the exciting development of one of the best gardens in Scotland. For more information please contact: Arthur Gill (Outreach & Training Officer) Tel No: 01224 585310 E Mail: argill@aberdeencity.gov.uk

The American mink is an invasive species that lives in both freshwater and saltwater habitats. Being a voracious predator mink have had a devastating effect on wildlife, most notably ground nesting birds and water voles. Our aim is to control mink and this is done using mink rafts to establish if mink are present in an area (if they are, they are trapped and humanely dispatched). Volunteers adopt a mink raft, and monitor for the presence of mink. The raft floats on the edge of a river or burn, and mink will investigate and go through the wooden tunnel. Inside the tunnel is a clay pad, on which the mink (or any other creature) will leave its paw prints. You just need to visit the raft every 1-2 weeks and check for tell-tale signs of mink footprints. No experience necessary, the raft is provided by us, and we’ll help you install it and answer all your questions. Watch a ‘how to’ video here: https://youtu.be/uPoRLZcmLHk This opportunity will be in the following postcode areas AB55, AB54,AB53, AB41, AB42, AB43, AB44

To assist the Rangers in conserving, enhancing and promoting the appropriate use and enjoyment of the area. Duties include habitat improvement and restoration, Removal of invasive and non-native species, Practical maintenance on fences, signposts, gates and paths and opportunities to be involved in species surveying and recording. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors on a variety of tasks.

Planting and growing and general gardening can be very theraputical and good for your mental health and general wellbeing as well as keeping you active. We know that many people keep active through gardening, but moving to a flat or experiencing a health condition may hamper their ability to stay involved in a hobby that used to give them so much pleasure - that's where the allotment comes in. Coming along to the community allotment (Growing Friends) offers access to disability friendly growing with companionship thrown in too. We hope you may know more about planting and growing than we do! But it's not essential. We are looking for volunteers who can help us plan the allotment use, help with the planting and growing activity and interact with our volunteer team. All equipment is provided. We just need your enthusiasm. We hope you will get the enormous satisfaction from seeing something you put in the ground grow and flourish. You will also be able to help support others in our communities try something new or something they once enjoyed. The role would suit someone who wanted to get out and about a little more and meet new people. Due to Covid we have had to have a flexible approach to our opportunities so depending on the restrictions that are active at any point the opportunities may come under one of the following options: Open for recruitment and placement Open for recruitment and risk assessed placement activity Open for some recruitment and some risk assessed placement activity Open for some recruitment but currently closed to placement activity Closed for all recruitment and placement activity

Clean Up Aberdeen is part of Keep Scotland Beautiful's national mass-engagement campaign Clean Up Scotland. Litter picking clean ups are a great way of bringing people together. Young and old alike can roll up their sleeves together to show that they care about their neighbourhood. Everyone can take part from individuals to schools, community groups and businesses. Clean Ups are great fun and make a noticeable difference to areas. Environmental Services can lend you litter picking tongs, high viz vests, gloves and black bags and will uplift the collected rubbish. All you have to do is pick and bag the litter. For more details, or to get help organising an event call 01224 219281, or email cleanaberdeen@aberdeencity.gov.uk You can also register a Clean Up of your local community with friends and family, work colleagues or your community group at: http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/planning_environment/environmental/environmental_health/enh_litter_clean_up.asp

Aberdeen Climate Action is an organisation run by volunteers passionate about raising awareness of climate change, its causes and encouraging positive action to reduce carbon emissions and create a sustainable lifestyle. We are looking for others to join our organisation and help us with our valuable work in the North East. We organise Climate Week, North East, which is a week of events put on by a collaboration of organisations throughout the city and shire. We need help organising this and our regular climate conversation café’s, and one off events, talks etc. We need people with all sorts of different talents – the most important aspect is the fact that you are willing to muck in and ‘do’. Good support is provided to all new volunteers e.g.: volunteers will have a mentor, who will be on hand to give support, advice and assistance, as needed. If you’re interested just come along to our meetings and you can meet us all and see for yourself. A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. For more details please contact: Alison Stuart (Director and Chair) email: alison@aberdeenclimateaction.org / Tel: 07779279583

Volunteers are encouraged to work in the gardens on Wednesdays and the last Saturday of the month (every Saturday from April 2020). Volunteering is coordinated by a designated board member, but volunteers work in the gardens under the direction of the gardener and/or the designated Board member on day-to-day gardening or manual labour tasks. In 2019, garden volunteers contributed almost 2000 hours, which is nearly equivalent to a full-time employee. As the gardens and woodlands are developed, it is anticipated that even more volunteer time will be required to maintain and develop the Gardens. To become one of our volunteers please email info@elloncastlegardens.net to register your interest or complete the VOLUNTEER FORM on the website. You can also follow us on our Facebook page for regular updates on the project.

Based in Errol, Perthshire, we are looking for gardeners to work in the gardens of Megginch Castle Estate. The estate is used by several charity and community groups, including ourselves and we would like to repay the kindness and generosity shown to us by helping recruit volunteers to help maintain and enhance the historic grounds which are home to a national collection of heritage apples and pears, walled, rose and physic gardens and giant redwoods. It is a serene and tranquil environment that recharges the soul, a gardener’s paradise! Please contact us at admin@pkdofe.com or call 01738 627455 / 07951 557979 for more information.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to inspire the people of Aberdeen about Greyhope Bay and our plans for a new marine experience centre that will connect the city to our marine world! As part of this we are seeking a tactical Social Media Marketing Officer(s) to come and join our close-knit team and help get the word out about Greyhope Bay and our exciting plans for Aberdeen. This role will involve: *implementing online and offline marketing campaigns that drive engagement with Greyhope Bay across our social media channels. *Manage social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, MailChimp and Instagram) for marketing Greyhope Bay activity, fundraiser and events. * Ad-hoc administration An ideal opportunity to gain fantastic work experience and meet new people whilst contributing towards an exciting and innovative project for Aberdeen. For further information please contact Fiona McIntyre at email: fiona.mcintyre@greyhopebay.org.uk or Tel: 07531826302 or visit https://spark.adobe.com/page/ZT0ryLNHocglw/

We are looking for people who would be involved in a group that would do a weekly litter pick at the Forth and Clyde Canal near Linnvale and Whitecrook in Clydebank. We do a weekly litter pick at the side of the canal in Clydebank, separating the material so that we can recycle as much as possible and make the area a safe and clean place that the local community can use. Due to Covid we have had to have a flexible approach to our opportunities so depending on the restrictions that are active at any point the opportunities may come under one of the following options: Open for recruitment and placement Open for recruitment and risk assessed placement activity Open for some recruitment and some risk assessed placement activity Open for some recruitment but currently closed to placement activity Closed for all recruitment and placement activity

*Bon Accord Care: Kingswells Care Home: Bon Accord Care recognises the invaluable contribution that the general public: friends and relatives can provide to the care and well-being of the people we support. We encourage the involvement of individuals who wish to volunteer in a service in a voluntary capacity, whilst ensuring that the health, safety and well-being of volunteers, the people we support, staff members and visitors is maintained at all times. Kingswells Care Home, is seeking support from volunteers or local community groups to help look after, care for and maintain our beautiful gardens. Kingswells Care Home provides support for individuals with dementia and age related conditions. Being able to use the safe garden area, or being able to look out at flowering tubs and pots and bird feeders, can greatly enhance the quality of an individual’s day. If you are handy with potting plants, weeding borders, then we really would love to hear from you. This is a great opportunity to meet new people, help you stay active and fit. Most importantly you will be contributing to improving the quality of daily life experienced by our service users. *About Bon Accord Care: Bon Accord Care is at the forefront of the continuing development of services to enable independence and reduce hospital admissions, as well as promote active ageing and well-being. Working together with our key partners, we are aligned with the Aberdeen City Health and Social Care Partnership to deliver services. Bon Accord Care work together with service users, partners, employees and volunteers to support our communities and create meaningful relationships with those around us. We deliver a range of services that are aimed at prevention, maximising independence, and enhancing wellbeing. Our focus from the outset is to get to know individual preferences, wants, history and lifestyle to ensure that each person receives a service that is unique to them. Our range of services cover: care at home, housing support, residential care homes, rehabilitation, re-ablement, occupational therapy, SVQs through learning and development, community equipment, telecare, day care, responder, respite and community meals. For further details please contact Julie Suttar, Engagement & Liaison Lead at E-Mail: BACVolunteering@bonaccordcare.org or tel.: 01224 570400.

Can you help us to help the butterflies in your area? Volunteers are needed to help us to create and look after new wildflower meadows in parks in Hamilton and Blantyre. You can help with sowing wildflower seeds, cutting the meadow, and removing weeds from it. Volunteers are also being trained to identify and record butterflies so we can see how their populations are doing. Meadow events and butterfly identification training workshops in South Lanarkshire will be organised and advertised on an ongoing basis. If you are interested in hearing more, please contact Project Officer Anthony McCluskey on amccluskey@butterfly-conservation.org

Great opportunity to assist a gentleman with the upkeep of his large well established allotment. Looking for a keen gardener who also has handyperson/joinery skills. Jobs to be done include- weeding, planting and general gardening. Maintaining fencing, summerhouse and some woodwork. The allotment is large with frames for planting and a polytunnel. Things grown are, potatoes, onions, leeks, beetroot, cucumber, courgettes and peppers. There is a summerhouse with seating inside in case of any sudden downpour, a porta loo is also in place. Bacon or sausage bap and cuppa can be made on camping stove. Any relevant training including moving and handling, general guidance and ongoing advice and support would be provided. A fantastic, enjoyable opportunity to help and make a real difference. All assistance is greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Kim Styles, Care Manager at email: kstyles@aberdeencity.gov.uk or tel.: 01224 264005.

Help support our Tuesday volunteers from 9am-12pm on Tuesday mornings. This would involve helping out with tools and tasks down at the burn. Tasks are wide ranging and involve everything from litter picking, tree planting, wildflower sowing, pond maintenance and large scale burn clear ups. Some knowledge of conservation tasks would be useful but we are most interested in someone who will enthuse the group and have fun whilst carrying out the tasks. Minibus driving ability (D1 on licence) would be brilliant but is definitely not essential. Please take a look at our Facebook and Instagram pages to understand a bit more about our project. We are volunteer-led and always working to improve the burn for the community and wildlife.

As a volunteer-led project, volunteers are integral to the ethos, development and maintenance of the therapeutic garden. Garden mentors provide support and encouragement to our garden volunteers who require extra assistance. Attending on a weekly basis, mentors provide support to the session leader; they participate in general gardening duties, working alongside those who may require support due to disability, illness or rehabilitation. We do not expect new volunteers to be an expert, or even to have any previous gardening experience. What is most important is a kind and friendly manner and a wish to help support others enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening. What do our volunteers enjoy? “Getting healthy, keeping fit, meeting nice people!” “Gaining confidence and working as a team. Very encouraging and enjoyable” “Learning new skills, a feeling of wellbeing from fellow volunteers and staff… Being part of a beautiful garden!”

Volunteers can be involved with gardening tasks, designing new areas of garden development, planning and running events. We are always keen to build on volunteer’s interests, skills and experience and therefore encourage suggestions and ideas and volunteers from all walks of life. It is not expected new volunteers to be an expert, or even to have any previous gardening experience. We welcome an array of skills.

The Aberdeen City Council Ranger Service is expanding its highly successful volunteer ranger programme. We are recruiting committed and enthusiastic individuals to assist the Ranger Service at a variety of sites around the city. The work involved is varied and, where possible, tailored to the volunteer's interests. This would be a perfect opportunity for people wanting to develop their CV, to get out and learn more about the landscape, wildlife of local area or even just wanting to get out and enjoy some practical work in an interesting setting. We do ask that where possible volunteers commit to joining as many work days as they can, these will normally run once or twice a week through the year and will allow us to help you develop your skills and explore your interests. However if you only want to work in your local area, or if you are only interested in certain volunteer tasks, we are happy to only contact you when a relevant opportunity arises. We are also happy for people to join one of our sessions on a “taster” basis before committing long term. If you are interested in using this opportunity towards a John Muir Award, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Saltire Award or any other qualification please just let us know and we can see what we can do to help. Young people aged under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. We are a recipient of the Volunteer Friendly Award national quality standard - all volunteers are therefore guaranteed an extremely good welcome and experience volunteering with us. For an informal chat and further details please contact: Duncan McNeill (Countryside Ranger) at Email: countrysideranger@aberdeencity.gov.uk / Tel: 01224 326429.

Help us keep Rosewell looking beautiful by helping to maintain our community planters and green spaces. Opportunities also available in our sensory garden at The Steading. All volunteers will work in a team lead by our Lead volunteer and supported by our Community Activities Leader to plan monthly activities around the village such as weeding, pruning, and planting. Materials etc will be provided however you may be asked to purchase some of the materials yourself – you will be reimbursed for this upon presenting a valid receipt. Some tasks will require lone working and others will be in a group setting depending on current Government Guidelines.

As a volunteer-led project, volunteers are integral to the ethos, development and maintenance of the therapeutic garden. Volunteers can be involved with daily gardening tasks; delivering workshops and activities; designing new areas of garden development; planning and running events and welcoming visitors to the garden. We are always keen to build on volunteer’s interests, skills and experience and therefore encourage suggestions and ideas. Volunteers of all walks of life are welcome to participate in this project. We do not expect new volunteers to be an expert, or even to have any previous gardening experience. We welcome an array of skills such as administration, marketing, events, design, DIY, landscaping etc. What do our volunteers enjoy? “Getting healthy, keeping fit, meeting nice people!” “Gaining confidence and working as a team. Very encouraging and enjoyable” “Learning new skills, a feeling of wellbeing from fellow volunteers and staff… Being part of a beautiful garden!”

We meet between 10a.m and 12 noon [inc. time for a well deserved coffee every Tuesday morning during summer months. If the weather is fine we are outdoors looking after veg. plots, flower borders, cutting grass and weeding the paths etc. The garden itself is a beautiful hidden gem. We have also adopted planters in the area between library and centre so we also look after them. If the weather is wet or too cold to be outside we have a room booked indoors and take the chance to look after the indoor plants in the Centre. The veg patches are quite productive so come September we are enjoying our own produce! This season we also have 4 raised beds in the new community garden in the area next door. This means that if you have any physical problems there is still ample opportunity to garden so do join us. We are all amateurs so are learning as we go. It is lovely watching the garden develop over the months and being out in the fresh air is very therapeutic. We have all the tools .... just come along any Tuesday!

Castlebank Horticultural Centre sits within the historic Castlebank Park, on the banks of the Clyde in Lanark. Lanark Community Development Trust are looking for an enthusiastic individual to facilitate their plant propagation activities to provide their garden with healthy, pesticide free, organically grown plants and seedlings. Castlebank propagation volunteers are supported by dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Together, staff and volunteers grow a wide range of heirloom vegetables, herbs, rare edible plants, herbaceous, perennials, alpines, succulents, trees and shrubs for education and the restoration of historic Castlebank Park. This volunteer position would be ideal for a person looking to gain valuable experience prior to entering a career in horticulture - or for an experienced gardener looking to use their skills to help out in the community. The volunteer would work with their Educational Gardener, Stuart and fellow volunteers to produce quality, organic seedlings, herbs and other plants for growing on in the Education Gardens and Castlebank Park, and to sell at Castlebank Horticultural Centre events to raise funds for ongoing projects. Volunteers also help maintain and improve the propagation area including infrastructure and gardens. Specific tasks and duties: - Propagating by seed, cutlings, division and transplanting - Watering, fertilising, weeding and plant detailing - Helping to maintain infrastructure and propagation surrounds

Castlebank Horticultural Centre sits within the historic Castlebank Park, on the banks of the Clyde in Lanark. Lanark Community Development Trust are looking for an enthusiastic individual to facilitate the maintenance and propagation from their rose collection. There is an opportunity for the development of the rose garden - including for the introduction of new plants and cultivars. Castlebank volunteers are supported by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Together, both staff and volunteers will propagate and grow a wide range of heirloom vegetables, herbs, rare edible plants, herbaceous, perennials, alpines, succulents, trees and shrubs for education and the restoration of historic Castlebank Park. The volunteer position would be ideal for an experienced gardener who is enthusiastic about roses and is looking to use their skills and knowledge to help out in the community. The volunteer will work with the Trusts' Educational Gardener, Stuart and fellow volunteers to maintain and develop the rose garden and herbaceous borders in the historic Castlebank Park terraced gardens. Specific tasks and duties: - Leading maintenance of the rose gardens including educating volunteers, dead heading, organic spraying, feeding, pruning etc. - Helping to maintain and develop herbaceous borders - Helping to maintain infrastructure

This initiative is about planting varieties of apple trees in any suitable space available. The blossoms are excellent for honey bees which are under threat. Apple varieties that are under threat of being lost are also maintained. Any fruit is to be made available for communities to use as they wish. Fruit may be used for eating directly, for cooked products and for cider making. Any profit from apples cropped will be returned to the community as well. Volunteers are needed to assist the project by : • Digging a hole. • Partly backfill with compost. • Place the apple tree, tree support and protection as required into the hole. • Complete backfill and water as appropriate. • Label with apple variety, its primary use, name of volunteer, date planted. • Feel good for helping the bees, the planet and our communities. Initially we are looking at two sites: 1. Grove Nursery at Hazelhead. 2. Cove Woodland Trust, South Cove Road. More sites will be developed across Aberdeen and the North East and other volunteering and job opportunities may arise as the project develops. All aspects of grafting, pruning etc. can be arranged for volunteers showing the correct aptitudes. A fantastic opportunity to help an exciting initiative. All help greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Brian Allan, Volunteer & Funding Co-ordinator at E Mail: brianaltenscc2@gmail.com or Tel.: 07751275757.

The woodlands in and around Forres are highly valued community assets. Forres Community Woodlands Trust aims to utilise the potential of these woodlands to provide a wide range of community benefits. These include providing local people and visitors to the area with ready access to special places to enjoy peace and quiet, healthy exercise, education and recreation. Our vision, therefore, is to maintain and enhance the Trust’s woodlands as bio-diverse habitats which provide recreational and educational opportunities. Our volunteer activities take place mostly in our FCWT woods, that is either Sanquhar Wood or Muiry. On average we meet one Saturday morning each month from 10 to 12 o'clock and we carry out maintenance work, for example removing young foreign species with loppers and hand saws like rhododendron, sitka spruce or Douglas fir or we plant trees or cut back bracken. Our aim is to remove as many foreign species as possible and replace them with native trees.

We are always looking for more volunteers to help at the former Rangers Station, now the community building and space, The Sand Bothy. We are looking for help with: serving refreshments at the Kiosk, organising classes, fundraising, running activity groups, auditing the accounts, producing publicity material, maintaining the Sand Bothy building - painting, repairs. Our Sand Bothy volunteers are also involved in: improving paths and signage in the Country Park beach clean ups, renovating the old bunker on the way to the beach, Easter egg hunt/Santa's grotto, etc.

Working on a croft which is developing a business to provide veg boxes for the local community. The opportunity offers the chance to gain experience and knowledge of organic vegetable production including preparing land, raising seedlings, potting on and harvest. Organic methods are used for soil fertility, pest and disease prevention and weed control. Minimal fossil fuel use is also important and hand tools and animals are used to clear land for production. Other croft work such as fencing, working with sheep, pigs, hens or selling produce to the local community is also available. Work is varied but can be physically demanding and sometimes take place in wet, windy or cold weather. Oilskins, gloves and some sizes of rubber boots can be provided.

Friends of Kings Park work in partnership with Stirling Council Countryside team and others to support biodiversity and improve habitats for bees, butterflies and other wild life within Kings Park. and also to make Kings Park a pleasant and attractive place to visit. FKP also undertake other tasks in partnership with others to help improve public facilities and resources within Kings Park. These additional tasks include fund raising, providing information and raising awareness re the history and heritage of this ancient Royal Park, Working in partnership with Stirling Council and others in taking forward the 10 year Master Plan for Kings Park, working in partnership with local schools on various biodiversity and local heritage park projects etc.

We have lots of opportunities for you to get involved with Balmedie Beach Wheelchairs. Our volunteers have a wide variety of roles. You could be welcoming our wheelchair users and giving advice about the chairs, looking after equipment, keeping the Bunker tidy and decorated, clearing the boardwalk, fund raising, helping administrate the project and lots more. If you have a morning or afternoon spare that can really help us, and of course you can get more involved if you have more time. Come and join our friendly group and help keep the beach wheelchairs running. We are always looking for new volunteers.

Castlebank Horticultural Centre are looking for volunteers with a keen interest in growing local produce, greening their fingers and looking to learn new skills within their luxurious community garden. The role gives volunteers the chance to meet new people, learn new skills and enjoy some fresh air whilst socialising with others in a friendly green environment. All tools and equipment are provided. However it is requested that volunteers wear comfy clothes and sensible shoes. All ages are welcome. However children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Volunteers will be undertaking a series of conservation tasks including replacing timber steps, woodland management and removal of non-native species. The site is part of the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve. Volunteers would be helping to manage and conserve the site and it’s habitats for the benefit of the wildlife and for people to enjoy. The volunteers could also learn more about the biodiversity, and opportunities are available to get involved in other projects and programmes with South Lanarkshire Council's Greenspace Team and Clydesdale Community Initiatives. No skills required. Guidance, training and tools talks are given for each task. The group meet once a month (the last Thursday of the month) from 10.30am and finish up at 2.30 pm approx. 2020 dates here: http://www.locator.org.uk/events/chatelherault-environmental-volunteering

Friends of Aberdeen Beach (a.k.a FAB) is a community group committed to maintaining and improving the quality of seaside between the mouth of the rivers Dee and Don. We, at Friends of Aberdeen Beach, do regular litter picks on the city’s beach. It’s an opportunity to get out and about in the fresh air, meet new people and do your bit for our community. Removing litter not only makes the beach look nicer but it also helps protect the wildlife off Aberdeen’s coast (like the dolphins, seals and seabirds) and keeps beach users and dogs safe from rubbish that’s been washed up. We liaise with Aberdeen City Council who assist us with our clean ups, provide equipment to us and install and maintain local facilities (bins, public toilets, information signs etc.). A fantastic, enjoyable opportunity to help and make a positive difference to Aberdeen’s wonderful beach. For further details please contact: Heather Lyons (Chairperson) at email: friendlybeachaberdeen@gmail.com or heather-lyons@hotmail.co.uk and also our facebook page and website at: http://www.friends-of-aberdeen-beach.co.uk/ and https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734153026833610/

As a Friend of Dundee Law you will be part of a team of enthusiastic people, giving their time to make our most iconic green space better for everyone. You can develop your interests and learn from others in Nature and wildlife, Geology and Archaeology, Practical Conservation, Committee admin, People and community involvement, Promotion. The group are involved in activities committee meetings, advice to the council, cutting back overgrown vegetation, wildlife surveys, historical researching etc. You can help put on events for the public or make use of funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund for training.

We need people to report their squirrel sightings so that we can assess where the threat is prevalent. You can report sightings of both red and grey squirrels at scottishsquirrels.org.uk We also need people to get actively involved in red squirrel conservation. There is a role for everyone and full training is provided: • surveying and monitoring of local woods • raising public awareness and engaging the community (including running events and social media) • group administration duties • data management and IT • grey squirrel control

Volunteers with or without experience are needed on Sundays once a month to help in conservation projects across the area. All training is provided. Work is with other volunteers in a friendly atmosphere. Tasks can be strenuous but all work is at the individual's pace.

Dighty Connect are seeking more conservation volunteers to work along the Dighty Burn with our conservation group. The conservation volunteers make a significant difference to the area, from building wildlife habitats to clearing the burn of litter. They help protect, improve and share important habitat and wildlife along the burn. Current conservation workers say it has helped them reconnect with nature, feel part of a group, make a difference to the local environment and feel better about themselves. They report a high feel-good factor because they are using their hands and their mind, doing things for themselves and following their passions. We welcome everyone, all we ask is that you have a genuine desire to be outdoors, a keenness in wildlife and an interest in the Dighty Burn.

To assist the Rangers in conserving, enhancing and promoting the appropriate use and enjoyment of the area. Duties include assisting with the management of key sites and promoted routes by carrying out regular checks, Practical maintenance on fences, signposts, gates and paths and Litter picking This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors on a variety of tasks.

Garthdee Field Allotments Association is a community of allotment holders. You will find us at the junction of Garthdee Road and Pitfodells Station Road. We have over 100 plots on the site, in 3 sizes – full, half and micro. Plotters are members of our association and together we seek to: -To encourage the use of green and sustainable gardening methods; -To share good practice and gardening expertise; -To spread the benefits of plot working and green gardening into the wider community. We are looking for volunteers to help with our activities on our individual plots, on the Primary School Plot we host, on our raised beds, in the Community Orchard and across the site generally. A great opportunity to volunteer supporting the allotments and outdoors. All help is greatly appreciated. For more details please contact: Norman Coutts E Mail: n_coutts@mac.com Tel: 01224 966952 More details are also available on our website at: www.garthdeeallotments.org

Bumblebees are familiar and much-loved insects that pollinate our crops and wildflowers. Bumblebees are vital to our communities and countryside. The Bumblebee Conservation Trust and volunteers are helping in this. Volunteering in any capacity is a great way to share your enthusiasm, skills and ideas whilst having fun and meeting likeminded people. By volunteering for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust you would also be making a positive contribution to the conservation of bumblebees, wildflowers and the many other parts of our natural world that depend on bees. To register as a Bumblebee Conservation Trust volunteer please visit our website at: https://www.bumblebeeconservation.org/volunteering-opportunities/ or contact us at volunteering@bumblebeeconservation.org / tel.: 01786 594 128

TCV and EPIC (Enabling Projects In Clackmannanshire) are looking for volunteers to work with us to help improve the green spaces and green networks of Clackmannanshire. Our work takes us all across Clackmannanshire with sites ranging from the Ochil Glens to high level paths, across community projects around the Hillfoot towns and to areas along the River Devon. Our work includes: • Wildflower Seed and Bulb Planting • Tree and Plug Planting • Path building • Scrub clearance • Removing Invasive Plant Species • Fence building • Pond building • Creating Habitats for Wildlife • Drystone Walling and much more Volunteering with us is a great way to: get outdoors, learn new skills, meet new people and make a real difference. Our days run each Tuesday and Thursday, from 10.30am to 2.30pm. Due to COVID restrictions, we cannot provide travel/pick-ups at the moment. Absolutely no prior knowledge, work experience or skills are necessary. All groups are run by an experienced leader who will give you training in the activities we do, the reasons why we do them and the tools we use. All equipment, tools and gloves are supplied. Please wear sturdy footwear and clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Please bring along a packed lunch and any water or juice you would like.

Garden volunteer at Larkhall Community Garden is an exciting and unique opportunity to be part of a friendly horticulture team. The volunteer will help us maintain our Community Garden in Hareleeshill Larkhall which was previously derelict land. Volunteer will gain experience in working on raised beds, sensory garden wildlife garden and within our polytunnels. To assist in seasonal gardening tasks throughout the year that will develop as the gardens develop. Volunteers will work in supervised groups led by a line manager. Some tasks are physically demanding and require a level of manual dexterity. Volunteers will work to the Larkhall Community Growers health and safety policies and procedures. • Garden maintenance – including weeding, mulching, edging, raking, digging over, staking and tying in, pruning, dead heading, bed preparation, tidying and path maintenance. • Seasonal propagation and growing on – including seed sowing, cuttings, potting up. • Composting – turning and processing, spreading and digging in. • Bed renovation and grounds development - reinstating and installing beds, ground preparation, planting, bulb planting. • Clearing overgrown areas – keeping on top of any invasive species. • While support and training will be provided, from time to time volunteers may work independently or without one to one supervision We will provide volunteers with an induction, including health and safety procedures. Specific horticultural skills will be developed whilst on the job. This opportunity provides strong links to improved mental health; creating a positive routine, enjoying outdoor space, the opportunity to socialise, become more hands on with natures calender and see and feel the benefits of your hard work bare fruit.

We are a small charity in Aberdeen City who have the benefit of a beautiful garden where Survivors of sexual violence can spend time enjoying peace and tranquillity. Due to the work load of our staff and Volunteer Support Workers, we are not able to maintain the garden consistently and therefore are looking for someone or a few individuals who would be able to spare an hour or so per week to cut the grass and maintain the flower boarders etc. Excellent support is provided to all volunteers. The Volunteer(s) would be given a brief introduction/induction to the charity and equipment used to carry out the tasks. The benefits to Survivors, staff and Volunteer Support Workers is immense so your input would be highly valued by the charity. For further details please contact Wilma Thomson, Manager on email: manager@rasane.org.uk or tel.: 01224 590932.

The Shetland Conservation Volunteers is a RSPB run team of enthusiastic volunteers who deliver practical conservation work in Shetland for environmental and community benefit. An ongoing programme of activities will be proposed, with an aim of a day of action every month in spring and summer. Tasks could include infrastructure maintenance at RSPB reserves and providing help to local projects such as weeding, pruning and planting in community gardens. There is no minimum commitment, volunteers can take part in one or more projects. This is an opportunity to learn and share skills, join a friendly team and actively contribute to protecting Shetland's environment. This opportunity is seasonal and will be dependent on guidance around COVID-19 for 2020/2021

As a Voluntary Farm and Gardens Volunteer you will become part of a team within our farm and gardens, set in beautiful surroundings 5miles outside of Aberdeen city centre and close to the Deeside Railway line. The opportunity does not require you to have previous experience, we just ask that you are caring, patient and willing to help our pupils, have an interest in people and different ways of communications. Please note- our farm cares for cows, pigs, goats, hens and alpacas. Our pupils age from 12-25 years old and as part of your position, you will be with them when they attend the farm and gardens as part of their personalised daily routines and assist them with their tasks. Training provided in induction and support given throughout the volunteering time within Camphill School Aberdeen. A fantastic opportunity to help with all assistance making a real difference and greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Naomi Paton, Recruitment Administrator at E Mail: n.paton@crss.org.uk or tel.: 01224 866162.

Through shared gardening activities, environmental improvements and events, Grow 73 aims to improve the health and well-being of our community and make Rutherglen the place to be. Their group of volunteers meet every Monday morning from 10am until 11.30am/12pm at their base in Overtoun Park, the shipping container in the area of the park near to the BMX track and health centre. The sessions are free and open to anyone. As a volunteer with Grow 73 you will be part of a friendly, hardworking team, discovering new skills and interests and making a positive contribution to your community. This is an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and gain experience in a hands-on environment where you will see your efforts make a real difference. Please pop along and join in – no gardening experience or equipment required (just bring gardening gloves!) Grow 73 are currently in negotiations with SLC to lease 3 disused bowling greens in Overtoun Park to develop a fantastic community garden so this is a great time to join up. Due to Covid 19 we are not serving hot drinks so volunteers are encouraged to bring their own if they wish, as well as their own gloves if possible. Grow 73 is disinfecting the tools after use and will be abiding by social distancing rules. Please bring comfortable , weather proof clothes as we generally dont have a place to shelter.

Ardler Environmental Group are responsible for the maintainance and upkeep of the Ardler Community Garden area. Our volunteers meet once a week on Wednesday mornings to develop and maintain the gardens for the enjoyment of the community. You will help with weeding beds and planting new plants both for the gardens and for selling at community festivals. You can learn about different plants and their upkeep, hanging baskets and how to layout a garden. More experienced gardeners can share their knowledge with the rest of the group who are always keen to learn. When the weather is less clement the group organises trips to garden centres and other gardens to get ideas which you are welcome to take part in.

Take part in Citizen Science with our other volunteers (or feel free to do so alone). We record wildlife along the Dighty Burn (and its tributaries) and include it in a national database (the NBN Atlas). We regularly carry out river invertebrate surveys to check for water quality; survey butterflies in the summer; take part in moth surveys; organise training days (including dragonfly and damselfly identification); help with dipper ringing and other bird surveys; carry out bat surveys and a multitude of other activities. We welcome anyone from complete beginners to seasoned professionals. All we ask is that you have a genuine desire to be outdoors, a keenness in wildlife and an interest in the Dighty Burn.

Gardening in the Spring Grove is an opportunity to improve your physical and emotional well-being. It is an opportunity to feel useful in your local community. This work will give you a feeling of ownership over part of the park while learning a new skll, rebuild an old one and share in fellowship with like-minded people.