Na h-Eileanan Siar
volunteering opportunities
Leverhulme Community Hub
Our volunteers generally work in pairs, so if you think you could help out either on a regular or occasional basis we would love to hear from you. Our existing volunteers can confirm how much enjoyment they get out of doing this & it will be even more enjoyable in the shiny refurbished building.
Harris Charity Shop
This is an opportunity to undertake a satisfying and rewarding role as part of our team of volunteers. Let us know what you are interested in.
Retail - you will provide customer support, provide sales service and sort donations whilst working in a friendly atmosphere, providing an extremely useful and appreciated service to the Charity.
If you’d rather be behind the scenes, you can volunteer on days/times the shop is closed to sort through stock, prepare and price items.
Do you have any eye for style? Help us to style the shop.
Review our stock regularly to keep the offer fresh and help create inspiring displays. Style our displays and shop floor and help create fresh and exciting displays.
Lewis & Harris Youth Club Association
This opportunity requires you to have D1 endorsement on your driving license. We need drivers that we can call on weekly during the summer (May-September) and maybe monthly during the quieter season, to drive groups of young people to and from their Scaladale Outdoor Activities. You need to be confident driving and maneuvering a 14 or 16 seater minibus around the roads of Harris.
The bus will usually be in Stornoway for you to collect, and sometimes you may bring the group with you from town, and take them back at the end of the day. They will always be accompanied by a responsible adult. Any travelling expenses you incur will be reimbursed by The Scaladale Centre.
Pick up and drop off times may vary depending on the session but times would be advertised in advance.
HM Coastguard
We are recruiting Coastguard Rescue Officers. Do you think you can make that difference when called out to assist those in gravest need?
Do you live in Harris? We are looking to enhance our numbers in these areas.
The Coastguard Rescue Service is a national blue light emergency service that provides 24/7 land-based help to anyone in danger on the coast.
We have exciting opportunities for people to join their local teams as a
volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officer.
Full Training, PPE and appropriate uniform is provided.
Ideal candidates must live locally to their station (within 10-15minutes
drive). The role is voluntary, but some remuneration is made for time spent
training and for attendance at incidents.
To request full details, entry criteria and application form email to: area18@mcga.gov.uk
Action for Children (Western Isles)
Gardening help with a view to help with ideas to develop the garden area both at Bayhead and Hillcrest.
Further information given on request
Action for Children (Western Isles)
Be rewarded and have new experiences, volunteer with us as a Family Support Volunteer.
Key Details
• Western Isles wide project.
• Flexible and variable days and hours throughout the year.
Can you:
• Understand the needs of new mums and dads.
• Empathise with parents struggling to cope.
• Be respectful and non-judgemental.
• Understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality.
What you can expect:
• You will provide practical and emotional support to parents.
• Visit families in their own home and sometimes accompanying them to groups or activities in the community.
• Play a key role in working with parents to friendships, confidence and skills which will enhance their lives and enable them to give their children the best start in life.
What we can offer:
• Gaining experience in working with children and families.
• Being involved in your local community.
• Be part of our friendly team.
• Meet new people.
• Gain a sense of pride and self-worth.
British Red Cross, Stornoway
Help with social media, facebook and Instagram. This is a flexible volunteering opportunity and would work well with Duke of Edinburgh and Saltire Awards
Citizens Advice Bureau (Lewis)
General support for admin at CAB
Lews Castle Parkrun
Various volunteer roles available - at start and finish points including taking times
Victim Support Scotland
Victim Support Scotland Volunteer
How can you support victims and witnesses of crime?
Victims of crime often feel a range of emotions in the aftermath of an offence. It is Victim Support Scotland’s role to provide victims and witnesses of crime emotional and practical support in person, online, and in court. Volunteers are supported by VSS staff who manage the service.
How would you help?
Our volunteers provide emotional support, practical help, information and guidance through the criminal justice system. We aim to empower people who have been impacted by crime, to move on with their lives.
Discuss service users’ needs by telephone, webchat, appointments and face-to-face contact, agreeing next steps at the end of each contact
Help service users feel more confident by arranging and conducting court familiarisation visits
Support service users in the court room and other appropriate locations on the day of the trial, liaising with court officials on behalf of the service users.
Feedback and agree follow-up actions with staff members
Provide administrative support in completing the service users journey
What benefits would I get?
Volunteering with Victim Support Scotland can be challenging and also extremely rewarding. As a volunteer you will:
Support people when they most need it
Learn new skills and knowledge of the criminal justice sector
Gain access to a range of specialist training courses that are relevant to your volunteering role
Positively contribute to your community as a member of a team actively working to reduce the impact of crime
A chance to give something back
Receive support in your volunteering role to deliver services effectively
All reasonable expenses (e.g. travel) will be reimbursed
What skills and experience do I need?
We are looking for committed, reliable and empathetic volunteers who can work with people of all ages, backgrounds and life situations. Although we provide full training and support, knowledge of the criminal justice system and experience of supporting people is beneficial. As a Victim Support Scotland Volunteer you will need:
Effective communication skills
The ability to actively listen to service users and anyone affected by crime
An interest in learning about the criminal justice system and understand the service user’s journey
An awareness of confidentiality obligations and the responsibilities that come with upholding these obligations
Effective time management skills (and working under pressure)
Access to a car or ability to use public transport
What is the time commitment?
We know that our volunteers have busy lives, so we agree the time commitment with each individual volunteer. However, we ask for:
a minimum commitment of approximately one day per week, however this may vary depending upon the needs of the service.
a minimum commitment of at least 1 year so that they might get the most out of a volunteering role.
How can I apply?
The people we support come from all communities across Scotland, as do our volunteers. We welcome new volunteers from all backgrounds and languages.
To ensure we provide the best possible service to people affected by crime, we ask all volunteers to follow our processes. This will involve:
• Joining the Disclosure Scotland PVG scheme
• Providing two satisfactory references
• Completing our three day ‘Introduction to Victim Support Scotland’ training module
• Signing and abiding by Victim Support Scotland’s Confidentiality agreement
• Commitment to Data Protection
• Volunteer Agreement
SSAFA - The Armed Forces Charity (WI)
Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don't need a military background just patience, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you. SSAFA Visitors provide support to isolated people living at home or in residential care. Whilst a friendly chat about the old days over a cup of tea, playing cards, looking at old photo albums or military momentum is an important aspect of the role you will also be able to recognise any other support needs and explore how to link your client into their local community and arrange for a SSAFA caseworker to assess the client for other support needed. The essential part of the role is visiting the client. Whilst you will visit a client on a regular basis for a period you will not be developing a kind of relationship where you will provide personal care, handle money or support someone in an emergency. SSAFA can help clients to arrange other types of support if needed.
Safe Families UK ( Isle of Lewis)
If you have a heart for getting alongside families who are struggling within your community, then becoming a Family Friend with Safe Families may be just the opportunity you have been looking for. Being a Family Friend with Safe Families is a brilliant way to get to know families in your community who need a bit of extra support and encouragement. Safe Families is a Christian charity and seeks to provide early intervention to the lives of struggling families in order to reduce any statutory service input. We provide full training and support for all of our volunteers and give them the chance to get alongside local people, helping them to strengthen their family life by befriending them, supporting them to be less isolated and to perhaps help them through a time of crisis. Volunteering opportunities can be flexible around the needs of the family and the volunteer so that they suit both parties. Being a family friend involves spending time with a child and/or a parent on a regular basis, having fun and giving support.
Age Scotland (Western Isles)
The friendship service is part of the wider Age Scotland helpline. The aim of the role is to provide calls of companionship to people who are 50 and over, who may live alone or feel alone, who don't have family nearby or who can't get online, and would benefit from a chat. The friendship service differs to a befriending service in that we don't match volunteers with callers, we rotate the volunteers around so that older people can engage in different conversations. The role is easy to fit in to most busy schedules. We ask that volunteers can commit up to 2 hours per week on the same day each week. Volunteering will be arranged for mutual convenience.
Western Isles Duke Of Edinburgh's Award
The Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are looking for volunteer Youth Expedition Leaders.
Not all expeditions are done on foot, although this tends to be logistically most simple so many are, but can also be by other forms of transport that don’t have a motor. Options include cycling, kayaking, sailing, horse-riding, coasteering, long boarding etc. If you have experience in any of these activities (or others you can think of) then we would be very happy to hear from you! Bronze expeditions are for 2 days and 1 night, Silver are 3 days and 2 night, and Gold are 4 days and 3 night. At Bronze, there is just 1 expedition to complete, but at Silver and Gold each group complete a ‘practice’ expedition at each level, and then if leaders are happy to go on to complete their ‘qualifying’ expedition, which is assessed. If expeditions are not your thing, you can help out with the ‘admin’ side of things supporting the young people with their ‘edofe’, logging on and uploading their evidence and ensuring that their profile is up to date and assessor reports are in.
Training will be provided for any new volunteers.
Commitment would be various hours between April – September for Expeditions and the admin role would be ad-hoc all year round.
Neuro Hebrides
As a small charity we rely on volunteers and fundraising to help us deliver the crucial work and support that we do. Get in touch to find out how you can volunteer as a fundraiser with our organisation
The Royal Air Forces Association(WI)
A caseworker is someone who carries out work for the Royal Air Force Association on a voluntary basis by gathering information, asking questions and completing necessary forms and by doing so, you will make a real difference difference. You will also work closely with the Area Welfare Officer to complete each case successfully.
Whats in it for you?
The Association provides a Tutor-led online training course that upon completion of the training course, you will achieve a Level 2 Information and Advice qualification accredited through the AIM Qualification and Assessment Group. Further/refresher training is also available.
Sight Action Western Isles
Sight Action’s Western Isles Sensory Centre, based in Stornoway, is on the lookout for volunteers to help with several vital services.
The charity currently offers both practical and emotional support to around 235 adults and children throughout the Western Isles.
The centre, which plays a crucial role in providing lifeline services, has several volunteering opportunities on offer.
Volunteers are required to work within the centre to give advice and practical support with hearing aids, as well as other aids and equipment.
They are also needed to help offer befriending services, or aid service users with driving them to appointments, help with shopping etc.
Full training will be given to volunteers.
Back Football and Recreation Club
Back FRC and The Lewis and Harris Trail are looking for volunteers to support at the Christmas Fayre on Sat 9th December at Back Football Recreational & Recreation Club
Lewis & Harris Youth Club Association
This opportunity is a great way to be involved helping to create, support and strengthen Youth Clubs in your own area and across Lewis and Harris. You will be required to meet once a month for approx 1 hour.
You will be able to learn new skills with organising clubs, helping at the Scaladale Centre, and helping to organise events like quizzes, sports nights and competitions
Training is given and you can work towards your Saltire Awards
Cothrom Ltd
Restore is looking for volunteer van drivers to help with our collection & deliveries. 2 days per week on a rotating basis.
British Red Cross, Stornoway
British Red Cross charity shops sell second-hand designer and vintage clothes, plus gifts, books, furniture and more, with all profits going towards the organisation's work both overseas and in the UK.
Volunteers are needed to assist with various retail duties, including:
- cashiering
- greeting and helping customers
- sorting new donations
- displaying merchandise
- general tidying and cleaning of the shop
- getting the items ready for re-sale e.g. ironing, pricing
The shop is open Monday to Saturday. You can choose to volunteer on a regular, weekly basis, or add your name to the list for short-term/emergency cover.The volunteer will continually deal with members of the public. Therefore gaining experience in dealing with people and handling money while helping to raise funds for this worthwhile cause.
Action for Children (Western Isles)
Be rewarded and have new experiences, volunteer with us as a Family Support Volunteer.
Key Details
• Western Isles wide project.
• Flexible and variable days and hours throughout the year.
Can you:
• Understand the needs of new mums and dads.
• Empathise with parents struggling to cope.
• Be respectful and non-judgemental.
• Understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality.
What you can expect:
• You will provide practical and emotional support to parents.
• Visit families in their own home and sometimes accompanying them to groups or activities in the community.
• Play a key role in working with parents to friendships, confidence and skills which will enhance their lives and enable them to give their children the best start in life.
What we can offer:
• Gaining experience in working with children and families.
• Being involved in your local community.
• Be part of our friendly team.
• Meet new people.
• Gain a sense of pride and self-worth.
Naval Childrens Charity (WI)
A childrens charity for children with a parent serving or ex service personnel in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines Reserves or Royal Fleet Auxilliary. Many children experience long time separation from their parent(s). The charity has developed story books which helps younger children understand and manage their emotions. The book is sent to children along side 2 knitted rabbits/penguin with faces on their tummies smile/frown to help them express how they are feeling. Patterns available.
Caledonian MacBrayne
If you are over 16, living on a scottish island, have an interest in the role ferries play in our islands and how we can work together to make them better then this could be for you.
More information on the role of the board is on the CalMac website under Community Board or on the facebook page Ferries Community Board
SSAFA - The Armed Forces Charity (WI)
Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don't need a military background just patience, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you. SSAFA Visitors provide support to isolated people living at home or in residential care. Whilst a friendly chat about the old days over a cup of tea, playing cards, looking at old photo albums or military momentum is an important aspect of the role you will also be able to recognise any other support needs and explore how to link your client into their local community and arrange for a SSAFA caseworker to assess the client for other support needed. The essential part of the role is visiting the client. Whilst you will visit a client on a regular basis for a period you will not be developing a kind of relationship where you will provide personal care, handle money or support someone in an emergency. SSAFA can help clients to arrange other types of support if needed.
Mary's Meals UK (WI)
Would you like the opportunity to support Mary's Meals work to feed hungry children in some of the worlds poorest countries and help give them a brighter future?
We are looking for volunteers to become church representatives, acting as a link between us and their church community to encourage support for our work.
As a church representative you can share resources and updates from Mary's Meals with your church community at key points in the year, helping to keep the community connected to our mission and encouraging their support. This could include sharing updates in the newsletter, parish noticeboard or as part of the service.
This is a simple role which does not require much time from you, but can have a big impact helping inspire people to support our work and enabling us to keep our promise to the 2.4 million children around the world who rely on us for a daily meal.
Western Isles Duke Of Edinburgh's Award
The Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are looking for volunteer Youth Expedition Leaders.
Not all expeditions are done on foot, although this tends to be logistically most simple so many are, but can also be by other forms of transport that don’t have a motor. Options include cycling, kayaking, sailing, horse-riding, coasteering, long boarding etc. If you have experience in any of these activities (or others you can think of) then we would be very happy to hear from you! Bronze expeditions are for 2 days and 1 night, Silver are 3 days and 2 night, and Gold are 4 days and 3 night. At Bronze, there is just 1 expedition to complete, but at Silver and Gold each group complete a ‘practice’ expedition at each level, and then if leaders are happy to go on to complete their ‘qualifying’ expedition, which is assessed. If expeditions are not your thing, you can help out with the ‘admin’ side of things supporting the young people with their ‘edofe’, logging on and uploading their evidence and ensuring that their profile is up to date and assessor reports are in.
Training will be provided for any new volunteers.
Commitment would be various hours between April – September for Expeditions and the admin role would be ad-hoc all year round.
Citizens Advice Bureau (Harris)
The Western Isles Citizen Advice Service are looking for dynamic individuals to join their board of directors and assist with the strategic direction and future development of the service.
WICAS is the leading information and advice provider in the Western Isles. The Board is made up of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and currently has vacancies for new members.
This is a great opportunity to help shape the future of information and advice services and contribute to the making a real difference to those in your local community.
Citizens Advice Bureau (Lewis)
As a volunteer advisor you will undertake full training and be supported gradually to become an adviser. This will involve interviewing clients and using the CAB information system give clients up to date and accurate information. You will explore options with clients and talk about the different ways their problems might be tackled, or offer practical help such as filling in a form, writing a letter, doing a benefit calculation, or making a phone call. The CAB has people from all walks of life and provides a vital service to the islands, this is a great opportunity to be part of something special. We have a small but committed and friendly staff team and are always looking for people who would like to get involved. If you have an interest but also some questions, the best thing you can do is have them answered. Come in and see the training officer or manager on Westview Terrace and discuss if this is the right opportunity for you. It really is a great opportunity.
Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland (Western Isles)
Chest Heart and Stroke, Scotland, Western Isles is looking for volunteers to support their service users. Volunteers are vital to the service – can you help?
We have a range of volunteer roles such as communication, administration and helping to organise activities to give support to those who are living with Chest Heart or Stroke Conditions, including long covid.
We will provide volunteer training for these roles, including communication support, providing accessible information and creating a safe and stimulating environment.
Volunteering hours are flexible and through providing one to one support, will enable people to resume activities in a hospital environment and / or within their own home or their local community.
You will be provided with full training and the post is subject to PVG Disclosure.
Caledonian MacBrayne
If you are over 16, living on a scottish island, have an interest in the role ferries play in our islands and how we can work together to make them better then this could be for you.
More information on the role of the board is on the CalMac website under Community Board or on the facebook page Ferries Community Board
Safe Families UK ( Isle of Lewis)
Individual volunteers needed who are able to provide (or transport) useful items, such as a cot or children’s clothing as required. We also welcome those with helpful skills, such as cooking or gardening to enhance the services
Safe Families UK ( Isle of Lewis)
Sometimes life is hard and family members need a break. Our fully trained volunteer Host Families host child(ren) for short periods of time to provide rest and respite for both the child(ren) and their family. Becoming a Host Family with Safe Families is an amazing gift to local families in your community who are struggling to manage life for whatever reason. Safe Families is a UK wide Christian charity and seeks to provide early intervention to the lives of struggling families in order to reduce any statutory service input. We provide full training and support for all our volunteers, who come from all walks of life, and give them the chance to get alongside local people, helping to strengthen their family life by supporting them through a time of crisis. Volunteering opportunities can be flexible around the needs of the family and the volunteer so that they suit both parties. Hosting involves caring for children from a local family in your home overnight for a fixed length of time – either a few nights in a row or on a regular basis, a night at a time.
Western Isles Duke Of Edinburgh's Award
The Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are looking for volunteer Youth Expedition Leaders.
Not all expeditions are done on foot, although this tends to be logistically most simple so many are, but can also be by other forms of transport that don’t have a motor. Options include cycling, kayaking, sailing, horse-riding, coasteering, long boarding etc. If you have experience in any of these activities (or others you can think of) then we would be very happy to hear from you! Bronze expeditions are for 2 days and 1 night, Silver are 3 days and 2 night, and Gold are 4 days and 3 night. At Bronze, there is just 1 expedition to complete, but at Silver and Gold each group complete a ‘practice’ expedition at each level, and then if leaders are happy to go on to complete their ‘qualifying’ expedition, which is assessed. If expeditions are not your thing, you can help out with the ‘admin’ side of things supporting the young people with their ‘edofe’, logging on and uploading their evidence and ensuring that their profile is up to date and assessor reports are in.
Training will be provided for any new volunteers.
Commitment would be various hours between April – September for Expeditions and the admin role would be ad-hoc all year round.
Citizens Advice Bureau - Barra
By choosing to volunteer with Western Isles Citizen Advice Service you'll be giving something truly valuable back to your community. As a charity, our volunteers are essential to allow us to deliver the important work we do.
What's involved?
There are a broad range of volunteering roles available within Western Isles CAS, so you can use your skills, knowledge and experience where it matters most from adviser roles to behind the scenes support we will let you choose were you think you'll make the greatest impact.
What are the benefits?
Volunteering is a fantastic way to stay active and involved in the local community. As a new member we will instantly make you feel at home. Let's not forget the feel good factor too! Giving people the information and advice they need to turn their lives around is very rewarding. As well as making a difference you can also learn valuable skills . 42% of our volunteers go on to further education or employment. As an adviser you will be part of the wider network and will have access to ongoing training and development. If you would like to volunteer with us or find out more we would love to hear from you!
SSAFA - The Armed Forces Charity
Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need. Next, they find the right sources of support and arrange for clients to access it. This might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit. Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.
The essential part of the role is interacting with clients, so you may be visiting clients or doing this virtually. As part of your local branch you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home.
What does this role involve?
• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time either face-to-face or remotely
• Liaising with clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances
• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice
• Applying on the client’s behalf to military and non-military sources of charitable funding
• Arranging for the purchase of goods and services
• Keeping in touch with the client so they know how their case is progressing
• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the
Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)
What can you gain from this volunteering role?
• Support people in your community with a military background
• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
Minimum Age: 18
Is a criminal record check required? Yes
Garadh a Bhagh a Tuath
Volunteers are needed to help in our community garden. We have gardening tasks for all abilities,with days and hours to suit volunteers. Duties may vary depending on the time of year, but can include digging, weeding, watering, potting and propagation of seeds and veg. We are a very friendly team who are always ready to welcome new volunteers. Help and support will always be offered.
Action for Children (Western Isles)
Volunteers needed to help with street collections, assisting in the set up and break down of any displays and be able to have a basic knowledge services and centres to any basic questions. Volunteers will introduced to staff and time given to chat beforehand. Volunteers will also be paired with an experienced member of staff.
Tagsa Uibhist
We are looking for new volunteers to come and support us at the Tagsa Community Gardens. The volunteer role varies throughout the year and can include tasks within plant care, harvesting, site care and maintenance work. We hope that the volunteer role is pleasant, enjoyable, flexible and above all fulfilling for the individual. Whilst the volunteering experience does not involve formal training, we hope that volunteers will enjoy 'learning by doing' through working alongside the Community Gardeners who are always happy to share their knowledge.
Citizens Advice Bureau (Lewis)
Every citizens advice bureau has a board of directors or management committee responsible for running the organisation and meeting the aims of the Citizens Advice Bureau service in Scotland.
The board / management committee is a voluntary group of people with the key role of ensuring that the bureau fulfils all its legal obligations and operates efficiently and according to good practice guidelines.
Financial matters, for example budget reviewing, fundraising and planned service developments
Promotion and awareness raising, to make sure that the bureau is well known in the area it serves
Working with the bureau manager and Citizens Advice Scotland to make sure that quality standards are being met in the bureau
Devising the bureau’s business plan, and monitoring its implementation
Making sure the bureau is fulfilling its responsibilities as an employer of paid staff
The Leanne Fund
The Leanne Fund is the foremost Cystic Fibrosis charity working with individuals and families across the Highlands, Islands and regions of Scotland. We provide vital social, practical, emotional and financial assistance, supporting the whole family.
Just an hour of your time once or twice a month is as little as we need ❤
We are looking for volunteers in all the following areas;
▪ Greater Glasgow & Clyde
▪ Ayrshire & Arran
▪ Lanarkshire
▪ Forth Valley
▪ Fife
▪ Tayside
▪ Grampian
▪ Highland
▪ Shetland
▪ Orkney
▪ Western Isles
Your time and support will allow us to continue helping those who need it most.
We have a variety of volunteering opportunities to suit just about everyone - Call our office 01851 702020 or pop an email to office@theleannefund.co.uk
The Leanne Fund
🧶👶🏻The Leanne Fund are putting a call out to avid knitters around the regions they work in to support their Hello Little One initiative 🌈
The Leanne Fund recently launched the Hello Little One baby box service to provide support to families following their little ones Cystic Fibrosis diagnosis.
The boxes complement the government baby box, providing a range of essential items. Since the launch in early June, The Leanne Fund have supported 11 families across the country with this service.
We are putting a call out to older members of our communities to get their knitting needles clicking to create specific items that we can include in our Hello Baby boxes which welcome the tiniest members of our CF community
The Leanne Fund
🧶👶🏻The Leanne Fund are putting a call out to avid knitters around the regions they work in to support their Hello Little One initiative 🌈
The Leanne Fund recently launched the Hello Little One baby box service to provide support to families following their little ones Cystic Fibrosis diagnosis.
The boxes complement the government baby box, providing a range of essential items. Since the launch in early June, The Leanne Fund have supported 11 families across the country with this service.
We are putting a call out to older members of our communities to get their knitting needles clicking to create specific items that we can include in our Hello Baby boxes which welcome the tiniest members of our CF community
Sight Action Western Isles
Sight Action’s Western Isles Sensory Centre, based in Stornoway, is on the lookout for volunteers to help with several vital services.
The charity currently offers both practical and emotional support to around 235 adults and children throughout the Western Isles.
The centre, which plays a crucial role in providing lifeline services, has several volunteering opportunities on offer.
Volunteers are required to work within the centre to give advice and practical support with hearing aids, as well as other aids and equipment.
They are also needed to help offer befriending services, or aid service users with driving them to appointments, help with shopping etc.
Full training will be given to volunteers.
Lews Castle Parkrun
Marshalls required at various points around the 5k course. Volunteers will need to be able to walk up to 5k to enable all points of course to be covered
Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
Stornoway, Na h-Eileanan Siar
Variable with weekly requirements
Team Lifesaving Operations
Responsible to Lifeboat Operations Manager
Closing Date 31-12-2023
Reference V16575
Crew Member ALB RD v3.pdf
(PDF, 114.27kb)
About us
The RNLI’s Lifeboat Station in Stornoway is looking for volunteers to join the existing team in the role of All Weather Lifeboat Crew. Stornoway Lifeboat Station on the Isle of Lewis was established in 1887. Since then, crew have been putting their lives on the line to rescue other, and have been presented with six RNLI medals for gallantry.
The impact you will make
This role will help us save lives at sea by ensuring that our lifeboats are in a state of permanent readiness and crewing the lifeboat on service and exercise, under the command of the coxswain.
What you will be doing
Undertake training and maintain Competency Based Training as necessary to fulfil the role of crew member
Be on call for lifeboat ‘shouts’
Attend exercises
Contribute to the overall upkeep of the station, lifeboats and equipment
Find out more about becoming a lifeboat station volunteer
What you need for this role
Team player
Good communicator
General fitness
Ability to learn new skills
Live or work within 20 minutes of the station and be between 18 and 65 years of age
What’s in it for you
Join an inclusive and diverse organisation
Have fun, meet new people and join a motivated and enthusiastic team who are making a difference
Learn skills and gain experience to enhance your CV
Gain the satisfaction of giving back
Training to fulfil your volunteer role will be provided and reasonable out of pocket expenses reimbursed
Please apply online or for further information contact the RNLI’s Volunteering Team on 01202 663346 or by email on volunteering@rnli.org.uk
Safeguarding
The RNLI is committed to safeguarding; ensuring the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment and have a zero tolerance approach to proven incidents of bullying, abuse, harassment or exploitation. The suitability of all prospective employees and volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment. This will include relevant criminal record checks being carried out dependent on the eligibility of the role. (England & Wales; DBS check, Scotland; Disclosure Scotland PVG, Northern Ireland; Access NI, Republic of Ireland; Garda Vetting; International, International Child Protection Certificate process).
Diversity at the RNLI
Our staff and volunteers have been saving lives at sea without prejudice for nearly 200 years. We respect and value diversity of background, skills and perspectives within our teams, and consider it essential to help us deliver a world-class lifesaving service. We are an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from everyone. In addition to having the skills needed for the role, we also look for applicants who share our commitment to living our RNLI values (trustworthy, courageous, selfless, and dependable), and helping us work towards Our Vision: To save Every One.
Equal opportunities
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea without prejudice. We aspire to be an organisation where our people are valued no matter who they are. We aim to be truly inclusive, benefit from diversity and appreciate everyone for their individual contribution.
What next?
Apply for this role
Hear back from the volunteer manager
Have an informal chat
If successful, supply references (if applicable)
Agree start date
Induction (and training if applicable)
Mary's Meals UK (WI)
Would you like the opportunity to support Mary's Meals work to feed hungry children in some of the worlds poorest countries and give them a brighter future?
We are looking for volunteers to join the global movement to help raise awareness of Mary's Meals and fundraise for our work in their local community.
As a Community Volunteer you can help grow our movement by motivating and inspiring people to support our work.
We have a range of activities you can choose from:
Sharing our story with local community groups,schools,churches and faith groups.
Organise fundraising events in your local area - such as coffee mornings, quizzes and bucket collections.
Promoting fundraising campaigns.
Distributing and displaying promotional materials and placing collections tins.
Our community Volunteers help support us with their skills, whether they enjoy baking,crafting and selling the proceeds at local event, giving presentations about Mary's Meals or speaking to people they know about upcoming campaigns.
The small things our volunteers do add up to make a big difference to the lives of the poorest children.
SSAFA - The Armed Forces Charity (WI)
Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English. If so, this could be the role for you.
What is a caseworker?
Caseworkers work with clients to figure out what type of help they need. Next, they find the right sources of support and arrange for clients to access it. This might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit. Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.
Why do we need you?
Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan. Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service. We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.
Barra Thrift Shop
Working in local charity shop. Variety of tasks to do including sorting through donations of clothing, toys, bric a brac, shoes and electronics. Keeping the rail/shelves tidy and clean and well stocked. Selling to customers at the desk. Occasionally help with hoovering and general cleaning. We would like to work with your strengths.
Neuro Hebrides
The group meet every Monday 2-3.30pm at the Failte Centre in Stornoway. If you can volunteer time to support this group every week or some weeks your time would be greatly appreciated
RNLI - Stornoway Branch
About us
The RNLI’s Lifeboat Station in Stornoway is looking for volunteers to join the existing team in the role of All Weather Lifeboat Crew. Stornoway Lifeboat Station on the Isle of Lewis was established in 1887. Since then, crew have been putting their lives on the line to rescue other, and have been presented with six RNLI medals for gallantry.
The impact you will make
This role will help us save lives at sea by ensuring that our lifeboats are in a state of permanent readiness and crewing the lifeboat on service and exercise, under the command of the coxswain.
What you will be doing
Undertake training and maintain Competency Based Training as necessary to fulfil the role of crew member
Be on call for lifeboat ‘shouts’
Attend exercises
Contribute to the overall upkeep of the station, lifeboats and equipment
Stornoway Trust
The Stornoway Trust is committed to the development and conservation of the Castle Grounds. The principle asset for achieving this is our tree and plant nursery located near Marybank within the Grounds.
The work is rewarding but also labour intensive, we are looking for a committed volunteer to help us achieve our goals.
The purpose of the role is to assist the Nursery Coordinator in a variety of tasks, working alongside other volunteers and the Garden Team.
Tasks will involve potting up seedlings, propagation, organising plant stock, watering, weeding seedling beds, and seed collecting (to name just a few).
Volunteer benefits - • Working with nature
• Conserving the Castle Grounds
• Learning lots of new skills
• Working in the fresh air
• Physical activity (get those steps up)
• Friendly, knowledgeable team
Childrens Panel (Western Isles)
Support children and young people through supporting panel members – become a Panel Practice Advisor.
The Children's Hearings System is Scotland's unique care and justice system for children and young people in need of care, protection and support.
The system is unique because it is unsalaried, lay tribunal members – Children’s Panel members - who are the decision makers at children's hearings. This is done by considering the needs, circumstances and best interests of the children and young people before them and making decisions accordingly.
Panel Practice Advisors (PPAs) play a critical role within Area Support Teams (those responsible for the delivery and administration of the Children's Hearings System at a local level across Scotland). PPAs are responsible for selecting and recommending panel members for appointment to the National Convener. They also regularly observe panel member practice within children's hearings and contribute to practice development within their local area.
The Eilean Siar AST is looking to recruit PPAs so if you have good assessment, observation, interviewing and communication skills and are able to regularly give your time to the Children's Hearings System.
Garadh a Bhagh a Tuath
Do you enjoy meeting people and some time to spare? Volunteers are needed to assist the cafe team in the day to day running of the cafe kitchen and front of house. Tasks will include serving customers, taking customer orders, ensuring the tables and surrounding area is clean and tidy, and preparing food and drinks. We are always happy to welcome new volunteers, and we will provide training and support.
Action for Children (Western Isles)
Be rewarded and have new experiences, volunteer with us as a Family Support Volunteer.
Key Details
• Western Isles wide project.
• Flexible and variable days and hours throughout the year.
Can you:
• Understand the needs of new mums and dads.
• Empathise with parents struggling to cope.
• Be respectful and non-judgemental.
• Understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality.
What you can expect:
• You will provide practical and emotional support to parents.
• Visit families in their own home and sometimes accompanying them to groups or activities in the community.
• Play a key role in working with parents to friendships, confidence and skills which will enhance their lives and enable them to give their children the best start in life.
What we can offer:
• Gaining experience in working with children and families.
• Being involved in your local community.
• Be part of our friendly team.
• Meet new people.
• Gain a sense of pride and self-worth.
Harris Mutual Improvement Association - Tarbert Community Centre
There are quite a few exciting gigs and events coming up over the next few months in the Tarbert Community Centre.
We really need some extra volunteers to help us run bars to keep raising funds for running and maintaining the hall. Please do get in touch if you'd like to volunteer. We would really appreciate it.
Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar (Community Learning and Development) (Lewis)
The youth council aims to provide young people aged 12+ from across Lewis with the opportunity to have their voices heard about the issues which are important to them. Meeting monthly and supported by the CLD team, Lewis Youth Council plans to set up clear routes to decision-makers at the Comhairle, Scottish Parliament and wherever decisions are made for young islanders.
Guide Dogs
How would you like to be part of the Guide Dogs family and help people with sight loss live the life they choose? We would love to have you onboard to help with our ambition of a future where every person with sight loss has the confidence and support they need to live their lives to the full.
Did you know that we don’t just provide life-changing guide dogs, we also provide advice, skills, emotional and practical support for children, adults and their families living with sight loss to help them live actively, independently and well?
To do all this we need the support of amazing volunteers like you!
If you would like more information, are unsure or need flexibility around the role then chat to us first by emailing VolunteerScotNI@Guidedogs.org.uk and someone will be in touch.
What does the role involve?
Identifying suitable places and placing our iconic dog-shaped collection boxes locally in shops and businesses and counting up the funds every few months before paying them in to Guide Dogs.
Key responsibilities:
* Identifying and placing collecting boxes in suitable locations
* Talking to the shop owner, receptionist etc at the location about how the boxes will help Guide Dogs and what we do
* Emptying boxes every 3-6 months (as they get full) and banking the income through the paying in book provided.
Give a receipt and letter of thanks to the hosts
* Keeping a written record of the location of all boxes for your supervisor, the dates they are emptied and the dates/
amounts banked
* If boxes aren’t collecting much, you’ll decide to move them to a better location. Your supervisor may also ask you to
remove boxes
* Reporting any stolen boxes to the local mobility team
Please contact VolunteerScotNI@guidedogs.org.uk for more information.
SSAFA - The Armed Forces Charity (WI)
Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don't need a military background just patience, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you. SSAFA Visitors provide support to isolated people living at home or in residential care. Whilst a friendly chat about the old days over a cup of tea, playing cards, looking at old photo albums or military momentum is an important aspect of the role you will also be able to recognise any other support needs and explore how to link your client into their local community and arrange for a SSAFA caseworker to assess the client for other support needed. The essential part of the role is visiting the client. Whilst you will visit a client on a regular basis for a period you will not be developing a kind of relationship where you will provide personal care, handle money or support someone in an emergency. SSAFA can help clients to arrange other types of support if needed.
Volunteering opportunities advertised
across
Na h-Eileanan Siar:
129
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Home-based volunteering, Suitable for groups, One-off volunteering
SOHTIS is a leading anti-human trafficking NGO in Scotland. We are committed to bringing freedom to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Scotland. We have an experienced team which has much to offer to the wider NGO and statutory sectors. We are looking to recruit volunteer(s) who can assist us in securing opportunities to provide these skills via the public tendering procurement system in Scotland. This is a great opportunity to join our passionate team and working closely with our CEO.
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Home-based volunteering, Suitable for groups, One-off volunteering
SOHTIS is committed to bringing freedom to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Scotland. This is a great opportunity to work within our social enterprise making the beautiful products which wen then go on to sell in a variety of locations. We are looking to recruit volunteer sewers or sewing groups who would like to give some time to assist us in replenishing our stock. All materials including patterns and prototypes provided and we have facilities where you can come and work, alternatively you can do this from home. If you are a creative there will also be an opportunity to share your ideas of other things we could make. This is essential role which allows us to recover more victims of human trafficking in Scotland.
SOHTIS is committed to bringing freedom to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Scotland. This is a great opportunity to join our passionate team and work with our Development and Partnership Manager and CEO to research potential grant funders and prepare applications.
Why we want you
Empower up is a programme of support is aimed at autistic young people between the ages of 12 and 19 who are living in Glasgow (and surrounding areas).
Participants will benefit from structured support to build and develop social navigation strategies and confidence. Social groups will also be created to encourage the development of peer friendships. Empower Up will take place over the course of 40 weeks, where participants will access 20 Social Navigation sessions and 20 Social Group sessions. There is also a Scotland Wide online group for young people between the ages of 12 and 15.
What you will be doing
Attending l group sessions
Volunteering with individuals to build their self-coping strategies and promote their self-management.
Talking with individuals, helping them to understand how their autism impacts them.
Building up positive relationships with people autistic people and other volunteers in group settings.
Spending time with / share activities with the group members
Help improve self-confidence, self-esteem and self-worth of people at the group
Help individuals to self-manage their own needs on a 1-2-1 basis in a public setting.
Welcoming new members
Accompanying group members in local outings
Keeping in touch with the group leader and notifying if you are unable to attend
Back FRC and The Lewis and Harris Trail are looking for volunteers to support at the Christmas Fayre on Sat 9th December at Back Football Recreational & Recreation Club
Sight Action’s Western Isles Sensory Centre, based in Stornoway, is on the lookout for volunteers to help with several vital services.
The charity currently offers both practical and emotional support to around 235 adults and children throughout the Western Isles.
The centre, which plays a crucial role in providing lifeline services, has several volunteering opportunities on offer.
Volunteers are required to work within the centre to give advice and practical support with hearing aids, as well as other aids and equipment.
They are also needed to help offer befriending services, or aid service users with driving them to appointments, help with shopping etc.
Full training will be given to volunteers.
Sight Action’s Western Isles Sensory Centre, based in Stornoway, is on the lookout for volunteers to help with several vital services.
The charity currently offers both practical and emotional support to around 235 adults and children throughout the Western Isles.
The centre, which plays a crucial role in providing lifeline services, has several volunteering opportunities on offer.
Volunteers are required to work within the centre to give advice and practical support with hearing aids, as well as other aids and equipment.
They are also needed to help offer befriending services, or aid service users with driving them to appointments, help with shopping etc.
Full training will be given to volunteers.
Could you help to raise vital funds for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.
Help us raise vital funds by representing SSAFA at local fundraising events, providing a friendly and approachable service to potential donors.
What is a Fundraising volunteer?
As part of a local team, our fundraisers represent SSAFA at events, and in public. The role includes helping at fayres, street collections, concerts, quizzes, raffles, sporting events etc.
Why do we need you?
SSAFA branches rely on regular charitable income to fund all the necessities behind our support for clients. This includes volunteer travel expenses, phone bills, publicity and grants for clients in urgent need. A varied programme of fundraising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.
Key role responsibilities
Being part of a team with collection/buckets tins at events, supermarkets, shopping centres, etc.
Acting as a marshal at a public event e.g. handing out water to runners, supervising parking etc.
Being part of a team running a stall at an event, Armed Forces Day, fayre, county show etc.
Helping with putting up posters, building gazebos, serving refreshments, packing/unpacking cars etc.
Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA, engaging people of all backgrounds and interests
Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)
When would you be needed and where would you be based?
This role involves being out and about at public events and would suit someone looking to give the occasional day, half day or evening to support SSAFA; when and where would be flexible to suit you.
What can you gain from this volunteering role?
Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others
Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising funds used directly to support clients
Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
What are we looking for?
Friendly and approachable people
Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and SSAFA colleagues face-to-face
Reliable attitude, keeping in touch the Fundraising Coordinator about your availability
Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely
Access to public transport or a car to get to events
Able to provide two referees: former employers or other people that know you well (other than relatives)
Referees
We have a few restrictions on who can act as a referee for you and your application:
The referee must have know you for at least two years - and you must still be in contact now.
The referee cannot be a member of your family.
The referee cannot live at the same address as you.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support disabled volunteers, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as non-disabled volunteers.
Clachworks CIC are currently looking for a volunteer to compile and submit funding applications for our Tool Library and skills workshops. Funding is needed to allow us to continue with the work that we are doing and to allow us to expand.
Responsibilities:
• Research and identify sources of funding and grants that match the company’s objectives
• Write high quality and winning funding proposals We are looking for self motivated, organised individuals with excellent written communication skills, preferably with expertise in submitting funding applications, to local and national government and other organisations who may advertise funds that we may make applications to.
You are able to volunteer from home and as the time required for this opportunity can vary a degree of flexibility is required to meet required deadlines for applications.
Our Virtual Home Assessors play a vital role in delivery of our service by interviewing potential volunteer pet foster carers to assess their house, home situation and the fosterer.
All of our home assessments are currently carried out either by telephone interview only (for cats,birds and small animals) or by video call (Zoom/WhatsApp) for dogs.
You can choose to be involved in one or both of the methods available.
You will be contacted by the Home Assessment Coordinator when a new applicant becomes available.
Main tasks include; contacting the potential fosterer by telephone/email/text to arrange a suitable date and time for the home assessment to take place. Once confirmed to carry out the assessment by either telephone or video.
A home assessment form will be provided to you for completion during the call which covers the criterias required by PFSS for the potential fosterer to be accepted. Once completed this form is then to be uploaded onto our database via our website volunteer team page.