The Lavender Touch – Caiti Beattie
Volunteering
We aim to develop and promote volunteering for all, improve volunteering opportunities, remove barriers to participation, and monitor the success of volunteering for the Scottish Government.
We work in partnership with many volunteer-involving organisations and projects, to promote good practice, recruit and place volunteers and to raise the awareness of the importance of volunteering.
Anyone can volunteer their talents, skills and experience and there is no ‘typical’ volunteer. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities. Local health support groups, sporting activities and events, arts and crafts classes – just some of the things made possible because of them.
While many people choose to volunteer after they have retired, it is also a great way for students to take a break from their studies or for younger people to gain experience. Short term voluntary opportunities also mean that you can give as much or as little time as you want.
Volunteering boosts confidence, self-worth, and overall mental and emotional wellbeing.
Stay connected, meet new people, and feel part of a supportive community.
Stay active through meaningful activities that promote better physical health.
Develop practical skills and experience to strengthen your CV and career prospects.
Access training, learn new skills, and earn certificates to enhance your personal growth.
Build friendships and expand your personal and professional networks.
Help create an inclusive, welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.
Join a cause that gives you purpose and connects you to your local community.
Take action to improve lives, influence outcomes, and create a better future for others.
Access references and connections that open doors to future opportunities.
Young volunteers (11–25) can achieve Saltire Awards for their contribution and commitment.
Explore your passions, uncover new interests, and find a sense of meaning through volunteering.
Celebrating, acknowledging, and rewarding the dedication, participation, and accomplishments of young volunteers in Scotland.
Empower your workforce to give back. Support your employees in volunteering and strengthen your business’s connection to the community.
All you need to do is complete our registration form. Alternatively, you can call us on 0300 1247522 or email the Volunteering Team to make an appointment so that we can register you. We will chat with you about your interests, hobbies and experience, and what you would like to get from your volunteering. From there we can suggest some opportunities that you could try.
We will match you with the opportunity that best suits you as soon as we can. Some people choose where they would like to volunteer during our meeting – others prefer to take some opportunities away for consideration and get back to us. Organisations that work with vulnerable groups or children may need to apply for a PVG (Disclosure Scotland check) before you can start. This can sometimes slow down the process a little.
Registering with us is free and you can use our service as many times as you like. We are always happy to support you with your volunteering needs!
We believe everyone has the right to volunteer in their community. However, some restrictions apply to volunteering in certain roles. There are no general age limits on volunteering, but there may be some opportunities not available to you because of insurance or other reasons. There may also be other reasons why a particular opportunity may not be open such as unspent convictions, driving bans etc.
