Why we want you: Abbotsford welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter Scott died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. We are looking for friendly and outgoing individuals to welcome visitors to Abbotsford and to ensure that their visit is enjoyable and satisfying. Based at the reception desk and gift shop within the visitor centre at Abbotsford, our Visitor Services Volunteers are the face of Abbotsford and play an important part in welcoming visitors from all around the world, ensuring the best possible visitor experience. This role involves a variety of customer service tasks based in and around the reception desk, such as the ticketing system and the retail tills. Our retail operation supports the important work of our charity, so an interest in retail would be advantageous. You might also have the opportunity to help with our public events. What you will be doing: Greeting visitors at the reception desk Ensuring safety and wellbeing of visitors and staff by adherence with good health and safety practice and any mitigating measures during Covid-19 pandemic. Processing admission tickets upselling gift aid, guidebooks, garden tours and any other events on site Offering directions and guidance to visitors on the shop floor and in VC including giving information on other places of interest within the Borders Handling cash and credit card transactions Promoting Abbotsford membership schemes, events, promotional offers & café Liaising with other staff and volunteers across the site Assisting with retail display; cleaning, tidying and restocking The skills you need: Excellent communication skills. Friendly, helpful and welcoming approach to all. An interest in meeting and speaking to people from all walks of life and all around the world. Commitment to excellent customer service. Confidence with cash handling, credit card processing and sales (previous experience is desirable, but not essential as full training will be provided). Confidence with operating an EPOS till system (previous experience is desirable, but not essential as full training will be provided). An interest in and willingness to learn about Abbotsford, Sir Walter Scott and the Borders. As the public face of the Abbotsford Trust, volunteers are expected to present themselves in a manner appropriate to their role. What's in it for you: Learn new skills and gain confidence in a work environment Make new friends and meet people from all over the world Become part of a friendly and diverse team Be uplifted by spending time in the stunning surroundings of Abbotsford and support the important work of our charity Get invites to volunteer social events Get discounts in our café and shop Travel expenses will be reimbursed (conditions apply) Use of ASVA cards to visit other attractions

Why we want you: Abbotsford welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter Scott died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. We are looking for friendly and outgoing individuals to welcome and orientate visitors around the site. You will be liaising with the house stewards to ensure that the flow of visitors into the house is managed efficiently. Our volunteers are the face of Abbotsford and play a vital part in welcoming visitors from all around the world and making their visit unforgettable. No prior knowledge is necessary, as full training will be given. All you need is a smile and a genuine interest to learn about Abbotsford and support our important charitable work. What you will be doing: Welcoming visitors when they arrive in the the South Court Check their tickets and orientate them towards their destination - house or gardens. For house visitors, explain what to expect on the house tour. Stagger entry if multiple visitors arrive at the same time. Manage the flow of visitors entering and exiting the house by liaising with the house stewards through the glass door and the visitor centre staff using the radio. Explain the route through the gardens and point out the chapel. Keep informed about and actively promote other activities and events at Abbotsford.. Answer any questions they may have to the best of your abilities. The skills you need: Excellent communication skills and confidence in conversing with the public. An interest in meeting and speaking to people from all walks of life and all around the world. A warm and friendly personality Excellent time management and punctuality Commitment to excellent customer service Be the public face of Abbotsford An interest in and willingness to learn about Abbotsford and a desire to support our work. Enthusiasm to share your knowledge with our visitors What's in it for you Learn new skills and gain confidence in a work environment Make new friends and meet people from all over the world Become part of a friendly and diverse team Be uplifted by spending time in the stunning surroundings of Abbotsford and support the important work of our charity Get invites to volunteer social events Get discounts in our café and shop Travel expenses will be reimbursed (conditions apply) Use of ASVA cards to visit other attractions

Why we want you: Abbotsford welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, garden, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. We are looking for friendly individuals to work alongside the gardens team and other volunteers in undertaking day to day maintenance of the gardens and ornamental policies. We are very proud of our gardens at Abbotsford and they delight visitors with their changing displays of colour throughout the year. Our volunteers work in small groups with hand tools on a variety of tasks within a day or half day as suits their skills and aptitude under the direction of the Head Gardener, Ranger or Gardening Assistants depending on the task. Much of the work in the garden and grounds involves sustained physical activity combined with an eye for detail and finish. What you will be doing: Watering and feeding plants, trees and shrubs. Hand weeding, hoeing, staking, deadheading, tying-in plants and cutting back in the flower, shrub and vegetable borders. Harvesting fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale in the shop. Construction of garden structures e.g. – fruit cages, supports. Division and propagation of plants and planting. Maintaining lawns and hedges – edging and trimming. Maintaining good access e.g. paths maintenance, signposting. Digging over, mulching and manuring borders. Interacting with and helping visitors to orientate themselves around the garden and estate. Assisting with events and activities. The skills you need: Interest in gardening, the natural heritage and working outdoors is essential. Some gardening knowledge or experience is desirable, but not essential. Good attention to detail and good communication skills. Willingness to learn new skills and to work as part of a team. Commitment to excellent customer service as you may be approached by the public while carrying out your volunteering duties. Dress appropriately to the weather - weatherproof clothing and tough footwear is recommended. What's in it for you: Learn new skills and gain confidence in a work environment Make new friends and meet people from all over the world Become part of a friendly and diverse team Be uplifted by spending time in the stunning surroundings of Abbotsford and support the important work of our charity Get invites to volunteer social events Get discounts in our café and shop Travel expenses will be reimbursed (conditions apply) Use of ASVA cards to visit other attractions Disclaimer A good level of physical fitness and willingness to work in all weathers is advisable.

Why we want you: Abbotsford welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, garden, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. The purpose of this role is to drive Abbotsford’s minibus in a responsible and competent manner, ensuring the safety and comfort of your passengers. The route served is Abbotsford – Tweedbank Station shuttle service. Melrose may be added to the route as the Trust develops the service. Occasional bookings may be taken for other destinations. What you will be doing: Complete vehicle safety checks prior to and at the end of each day and record these as per organisational procedures Report any defects and faults as per guidelines and procedures To be responsible for the safety of your passengers and to be aware of the relevant mini bus legislation and any Covid measures introduced by the Abbotsford Trust To be able to use the passenger lift/ramp in a safe and responsible manner. Ensure the correct use of the appropriate wheelchair tie downs and passenger restraint systems When necessary assist passengers when entering and leaving the vehicle. To work in a helpful, caring and confidential manner within the aims and objectives of the organisation. To be self-motivated and sensitive to the needs of passengers and colleagues. To inform the Visitor Services Manager and in their absence the Volunteer Co-ordinator of any changes to your health or endorsements that affect your driving licence or ability to drive. To notify any incidents or accidents affecting passenger safety whilst on duty. To work within health and safety legislation at all times. To attend relevant training courses before carrying passengers Ensure that the vehicle is in a clean condition (inside and out) before and after use. Refuel the bus as required. Contribute to mini bus service development by making suggestions and feeding back passenger comments. The skills you need: Applicants must be over 30 years of age. This is an insurance requirement. Must have a full, clean licence which includes the D1 entitlement (automatic if manual car licence obtained before Jan 1st 1997). Over the age of 70 drivers will need to renew the ‘D1’ entitlement of their licence, requiring a medical examination (D4). This is valid for 3 years. Over the age of 70 drivers will need to be accepted as a ‘named driver’ by Abbotsford’s insurers. Unless and until this is agreed the applicant will be unable to drive the minibus. Be able to drive minibus/vehicles safely and professionally. Training will be given (MiDAS). Be flexible; and able to work as part of a team Be in good health Be patient, understanding, have a responsible attitude and provide exceptional customer care. What's in it for you: Become involved and make a contribution to an internationally significant heritage site at an exciting and challenging stage in its history. Be an ambassador for Abbotsford and Sir Walter Scott within the local community and more widely. Meet a wide variety of people, including staff, trustees, volunteers and visitors from around the globe. Develop skills, knowledge and increased confidence. Get invites to volunteer social events Get discounts in our café and shop Travel expenses will be reimbursed (conditions apply) Use of ASVA cards to visit other attractions

Why we want you: The Abbotsford Trust welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter Scott died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. The Abbotsford Trust cares for 120 acres of land beside the Tweed, made up of meadow and native woodland much of it planted by Sir Walter Scott himself. The Abbotsford Trust is committed to using the environment for the benefit of wildlife by promoting, supporting and enhancing its diversity on the Estate. We are looking for friendly individuals to work alongside the estates team in the role of Wildlife Volunteer. This is a practical based opportunity working within Abbotsford’s woodland and estate under the direction of the Head Gardener to help maintain and preserve Abbotsford's Estate both as a natural wildlife habitat and a place for the public to enjoy. A regular, reliable commitment is appreciated as is the ability to work as part of a team. This opportunity would suit someone who is happy to be based outdoors. What you will be doing: Monitor and maintain wildlife cameras across the site Monitor and maintain wildlife feeding stations Under the supervision of the Head Gardener conduct surveys of habitats, wildflowers, butterflies, birds Assist with maintaining accurate records of sightings and results of specific monitoring Assist with analysis of wildlife activity and sightings across the estate Supporting the Head Gardener to encourage and assist other wildlife groups who may wish to visit the estate Engaging with visitors to the estate in relation to wildlife at Abbotsford Undertaking any training deemed relevant Working by yourself or with other volunteers/staff Working within Abbotsford’s Health and Safety Policy at all times The skills you need: Be reasonably fit and healthy Be able to keep accurate records IT literate (training on specific systems will be provided) What's in it for you: Become involved and contribute to an internationally significant heritage site Be an ambassador for Abbotsford, Sir Walter Scott and The Abbotsford Trust Meet a wide variety of people, including staff, trustees, other volunteers and visitors from around the globe Volunteers are entitled to claim the costs of travel from their home to Abbotsford (conditions apply). 10% discount in Ochiltree’s café 10% discount on the cost of admission to events 20% discount in the Visitor Centre shop (with volunteer pass) Opportunities to apply for posts restricted to internal only advertising Use of ASVA cards (Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions) OR Historic Houses Association 2x guest passes for friends and family each season

Why we want you Abbotsford welcomes over 40,000 visitors a year from all over the world. We have been a world-famous visitor attraction since Sir Walter died in 1832. Taken over by a charitable trust in 2007, our mission is to care for his house, garden, estate and collection and share his legacy with the world. We are looking for friendly individuals to work alongside the estates team and other volunteers in undertaking day to day maintenance of the estates. The Abbotsford Trust looks after 120 acres of land beside the Tweed, made up of meadow and native woodland, much of it planted by Scott himself. A major restoration of Sir Walter Scott's woodlands and paths has recently been completed. New signage and benches have been put in place, old views restored and native trees replanted. As an Estate Volunteer, you will assist the ranger in a variety of tasks looking after Scott’s woodland estate and helping visitors to enjoy the landscape. This role would suit someone who is reasonably fit and healthy, has an interest in conservation and likes manual activity tasks. What you will be doing: A variety of conservation tasks such as coppicing, small scale forestry tasks such as tree planting, tree pruning, path & woodland glade maintenance. Clearing and improving drainage culverts. Grassland management, grass cutting when necessary, removal of invasive weeds. Surveys of habitats, wildflowers, butterflies, birds. Controlling and monitoring public access on the estate and reporting vandalism. Orientate visitors around the site. Undertaking any training deemed relevant. Working by yourself or with other volunteers/staff. Working within Abbotsford’s Health and Safety Policy at all times. Reporting any potential hazards, accidents and other issues to the Ranger. Work with general garden and estates team to complete tasks when required. The skills you need: Reasonably fit and healthy – lots of walking will be involved as well as a variety of manual handling tasks. Experience in undertaking a variety of practical tasks in an outdoor environment would be beneficial, however, ongoing training will be provided. A safe and competent tool user. Training will be provided where necessary. An enthusiastic person who takes pride in their work and has a good eye for high presentation standards. Good at working in a team to complete tasks. What's in it for you: Become involved and make a contribution to an internationally significant heritage site at an exciting and challenging stage in its history. Be an ambassador for Abbotsford, Sir Walter Scott and the redevelopment project on site and within your local community. Meet a wide variety of people, including staff, trustees, other volunteers and visitors from around the globe. Develop skills, knowledge and increase confidence. Work in a beautiful setting. Get invites to volunteer social events. Get discounts in our café and shop. Travel expenses will be reimbursed (conditions apply) Use of ASVA cards to visit other attractions Disclaimer A good level of physical fitness and willingness to work in all weathers is advisable.

Our Aberdeen is an events programme run by Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums. Its aim is to encourage people to come together to explore the city through our art and history collection. Each session is themed and is introduced by our volunteers who create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, encouraging discussion and reminiscing. We use the collection as the starting point to share stories with each other and learn more about the history of our city. One of the features of this event is the opportunity to hold real museum objects. We have a set of themed Treasure Boxes, which are really mini museums. -The types of activities we include: • Opportunities to handle real museum objects • Exploring and talking about artworks and exhibitions • Reminiscence and memory sharing • Short creative activities that involve sight, sound, touch or smell -What is the role? This role is part of a dedicated team that create sessions suitable for older people and those living with a dementia diagnosis. This role includes: • creating content for events with our team and existing volunteers • supporting the sessions for members of the public including event preparation and meeting and greeting audiences • collecting relevant information and data, including attendance figures at our sessions • socialising with the audience and encouraging discussion -What’s in it for you? • Opportunities to develop valuable skills and experiences within the gallery and museum sector • Training in dementia awareness, collection object handling and working with the public • Enjoyment in doing something you like while meeting new, like-minded people • Being a valued part our team and supporting our dementia friendly programme • Sharing your passion and enthusiasm with the community • Voluntary work experience, which can be an invaluable addition to your transferrable skills A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. All assistance is greatly appreciated. To volunteer with us/for further details please contact Laura Socha, Volunteer Liaison Officer at email: LSocha@aberdeencity.gov.uk

The Board of Almond Valley Heritage Trust is responsible for the strategic direction of our charity. It sets and monitors policy, and provides oversight of operations and activities that are implemented by our professional team. Board members (Trustees) bring a diverse range of interests and experiences to the Board, represent a fair balance of views and perspectives, and are able to draw on many skills and strategic insights. We’re always happy to hear from individuals with appropriate interests and experiences who may be interested in joining the Board, and at present have a special interest in recruiting Board members who have insight into legal matters. The minimum commitment sought is attendance and contribution to Board meetings that are held six times a year, normally on a Wednesday evening.

CVS Falkirk & District are looking for volunteer researchers to contribute to an upcoming exhibition celebrating volunteering and community engagement in the Falkirk area over the last forty years. On 6th December 2023 we celebrated our 40th birthday at CVS Falkirk & District! And Volunteer Week 2024 also happens to be turning 40 this year too. So during this anniversary year we want to do something extra special and are creating a fitting tribute to not just the work that CVS do, but to the people and communities that we are here to support. We plan to host a free exhibition in Falkirk to showcase the local history of volunteering across the Falkirk area. To do this, we are looking for volunteers to collect and record the local history of community engagement and volunteering from 1983 to now - in particular we would like someone who can search for old newspaper articles and photographs, particularly from the Falkirk Herald. This role would suit individuals, students and researchers who are interested in local history, oral history, media and community and are looking for more research experience - or just enjoy doing research and celebrating the community! There is also opportunity to help build and get involved with the exhibition, which is great experience for anyone who wants to work in heritage.

Interested in inspiring young people in the STEM subjects? Join a national network of 32,000 STEM Ambassadors in the UK and 5,000 in Scotland! STEM Ambassadors volunteer to inspire the next generation and help young people to develop the skills, confidence and mindset to build successful futures in STEM. You can volunteer as a STEM Ambassador to give career talks, run STEM clubs, provide advice on STEM subjects, run STEM workshops, help young people with STEM competitions - anything really which will ignite their imagination. STEM Ambassadors can find their own opportunities to volunteer or can search the STEM Ambassador digital platform for both face to face and online requests placed by teachers and community groups. The platform will connect you with the teacher/community group making the request and you can message to arrange the activity. All of your volunteering can be recorded on the platform to build a detailed summary of what you have been involved with. All STEM Ambassadors undergo a PVG Disclosure check and undertake online induction training before being authorised to work with young people. The programme is funded through the UK Government, with SSERC being the local Scottish delivery partner. SSERC will provide you with regular updates, training sessions and networking opportunities to keep your knowledge up to date and relevant for working in schools and community groups.