May 2025 Update with Mike Melvin

Local volunteers Recognised with Kings Award for Voluntary Service

ACVO were delighted to join His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeen, Lord Provost Cllr. Dr David Cameron in presenting Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland (A-ND) with the prestigious Kings Award for Voluntary Service. The award was received by A-ND CEO Billy Alexander, Board Member Margaret Hodder, staff and volunteers. The unique national honour recognises the outstanding contribution made to local communities by groups of volunteers. It has an equivalent status for voluntary groups as the MBE has for individuals. It is the highest award that a voluntary organisation can receive. Two representatives from awarded groups also receive an invite to attend a Royal Garden Party to further thank people for all that they do.

The Lord Lieutenant, who serves as His Majesty’s representative in Aberdeen, expressed his great thanks to A-ND highlighting the important, contribution volunteers make and congratulating everyone  at the organisation on such a tremendous achievement.

As well as Volunteering Services Manager at ACVO, I help with local assessments of nominations for the Award in my role as a Deputy Lieutenant of Aberdeen and I’d like to extend a huge congratulations to Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland, on being awarded the Kings Award for Voluntary Service. It is such an incredible achievement which reflects and recognises outstanding volunteering and the vital, magnificent support they provide people and the  community which makes a real difference.

As well as A-ND , The Lord Lieutenant will also be presenting MISS - Miscarriage Support and Shopmobility Aberdeen who were also awarded the Kings Award for Voluntary Service for the exceptional work and volunteering that they do.

For more information about the Kings Award for Voluntary Service please visit: kavs.dcms.gov.uk

‍

New report highlights the positive social value of volunteering in Scotland

The tremendous human impact of volunteering for people and our communities is well recognised and now a new report has also highlighted the colossal social and economic value of volunteering.

The report from Volunteer Scotland, and social value specialist State of Life, notes that the social value of weekly formal volunteering is approximately £1000 per person, per year. For Scotland it is estimated that volunteers are contributing an incredible £2.3 billion to the Scottish economy per annum in terms of their time and higher wellbeing. Bringing major cumulative economic, higher wellbeing, societal and public health benefits for volunteers and our communities.

Volunteers are the golden thread in our communities making a real difference for people. This new report further highlights how important volunteers are and gives us even more reasons to be grateful and thankful for everyone involved in volunteering.

You can read ‘The social value of volunteering in Scotland’ report in full on the Volunteer Scotland website

If you would like to volunteer in Aberdeen or have volunteer roles you wish to promote via ACVO, find out more by visiting volunteeraberdeen.org.uk

‍

Volunteers Week 2025: Join in and say thanks in June!

Aberdeen is all set for a fantastic national Volunteers Week 2025, which takes place between the 2nd-8th June. It promises to be a great celebration, thank you and recognition of the important and tremendous help that volunteers in Aberdeen and across the country provide.

Ahead of Volunteers Week, the Lord Provost of Aberdeen Cllr. Dr David J Cameron said:

With over 1,000 voluntary organisations and more than 6.4 million hours of support each year, Aberdeen’s volunteers are true heroes. Their selfless work transforms lives, and I’m proud to serve a city with such community spirit.

Paul O'Connor MBE, Chair of ACVO, added: "Aberdeen's volunteers are inspirational. Your commitment and compassion make this city a beacon of volunteering excellence. You are real life superheroes - thank you all."

Kevin Stewart MSP, Aberdeen Central, shared: "Volunteers are the backbone of our communities. This week is a chance to thank you for your time, care, and the real difference you make in people’s lives."

Find updates for Volunteers Week 2025, and links to free resources and templates, at volunteersweek.org

Get involved: Volunteer in Aberdeen!

There are hundreds of different ways you can give your time as a volunteer in Aberdeen! The great thing about volunteering is that it is so inclusive, no matter your experience, time you have to give or age, there is a volunteer opportunity to suit you and an organisation in Aberdeen that would really value your contribution.

Have a look below at some of our recently added opportunities and discover how you can make a big difference in your local community!