Successes, Celebrations & Challenges: Strengthening Volunteering Across Our Communities

Successes

“One of the most fantastic developments this year has been the energy and enthusiasm shown by students. Whether at schools, colleges, or universities, we’ve seen young people step forward to give their time and talents.”

Volunteering not only supports local communities but also helps students build skills, gain recognition through initiatives such as the Saltire Awards, and connect their studies with real-life experiences. Many of the students I’ve spoken to talk about how volunteering gives them a sense of purpose alongside their academic work – a way to put learning into action while making a positive difference.

At ACVO we’ve been delighted to strengthen our links with schools, student associations, and learning institutions across the city, making sure opportunities are visible, accessible, and exciting. The message is clear: volunteering is not only about what you give, but also about what you gain; confidence, friendships, career insights, and a chance to be part of something bigger.

And it’s not just students making an impact. The recently published Scottish Household Survey 2024 revealed that adult volunteering in Aberdeen is on the rise. The figures show that 30% of adults reported taking part in formal volunteering (volunteering with a group or organisation) – a tremendous increase from 16% in 2023 and 5% above the national average which also saw a big rise.

Combined with the informal volunteering participation rate this shows that an incredible 51% of people in Aberdeen are helping out volunteering. This is a hugely encouraging trend and a reminder that the spirit of volunteering is alive and well across all age groups in Aber-deen.

Whether it’s helping at a local charity, supporting events, or simply giving an hour here and there, every contribution makes a real difference and is massively appreciated by your community.

Celebrations

“As we celebrate the contributions of volunteers, it’s also important to give a nod to those who support, guide, and encourage them. That’s why International Volunteer Managers Day on 5th November 2025 is such a superb occasion.”

This year’s theme – “Be BOLD. Make Change” – perfectly captures the creativity and commitment shown by volunteer leaders every single day. Volunteer managers are often the unsung heroes of our sector. They inspire confidence, create opportunities, and ensure volunteers feel valued and supported. Without them, much of the incredible work we see in Aberdeen simply wouldn’t happen.

I’m proud that ACVO will be marking the day with an event dedicated to recognising this vital role. I’d encourage anyone involved in volunteering – whether you’re a volunteer yourself, a manager, or part of an organisation – to join us in celebrating the people who make volunteering possible.

Book your place via bit.ly/4q78q9h.

Challenges

“While we have much to celebrate, it’s also important to reflect on the challenges we face as a volunteering community. Recently, there has been considerable commentary about proposals to introduce volunteering in the community as a condition for migrants to qualify for indefinite leave to remain.”

Volunteer Scotland have set out a very clear position on this: “As Scotland’s national centre for volunteering, it is our stance that any mandatory activity cannot be considered as volunteering because it is not voluntary. This is further reinforced in principle one of the Volunteer Charter which states that ‘any volunteer activity is a freely made choice of the individual. If there is any compulsion, threat of sanctions or force, then any such activity is not volunteering.

“There are many well established routes into volunteering to support community capacity building and inclusion, and we encourage support and investment in these.”

I think this is a very sensible statement and one that all at ACVO TSI support.

In Aberdeen we are fortunate to see tremendous examples of volunteering every day, rooted in generosity, kindness, and a genuine desire to make a difference. It is important that we continue to protect these principles, ensuring that volunteering remains a positive, voluntary act that builds stronger communities for everyone.

The Volunteer Charter sets out this principle clearly, and it’s vital that we protect and uphold it. As we continue encouraging more people to discover the joy of volunteering, we must also safeguard the values that make it meaningful.

Get involved

If you’re interested in volunteering, visit Volunteer Aberdeen to explore the latest opportunities in your community. Organisations can also submit opportunities, visit volunteeraberdeen.org.uk for further details.

Stay informed with ACVO’s So Why Don’t You… programme on SHMU Community Radio, broadcast live every Friday from 2 to 3 pm. Episodes are also available on demand at acvo.org.uk/sowhydontyou.

If you’re aged 12-25, ACVO coordinates the Saltire Awards locally – recognising young volunteers for 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 hours of service. Find info and get involved at saltireawards.scot.

Join ACVO and over 200 Scottish organisations as a Volunteer Charter Champion by pledging support at volunteerscotland.net.

For info on the Volunteering Action Plan for Scotland, involvement opportunities, and volunteer recruitment tips, volunteeringactionplan.co.uk.

Got questions? Contact me at mike.melvin@acvo.org.uk!

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!