Volunteer Scotland and Scotland’s Towns Partnership are pleased to join together to help direct volunteers to the opportunities where they can make a contribution to their local community.
More than 45,000 Scots have signed up to the Scotland Cares call for COVID-19 volunteers. Along with many existing volunteers, new people from all places and backgrounds have come forward to help in the emergency and recovery. Volunteer Scotland and STP would now like to help raise awareness of the opportunities for people to volunteer in their own town centres and local communities, both in response to the current crisis, and in longer-term commitments once the lock-down ends.
At this first stage of the partnership, we invite you to check out the organisations which are active in the COVID-19 response in your area and which may be able to benefit from your volunteer services. Please see below for links to help you identify and get in touch with the right local group.
Improvement Districts
Often also known as Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), these are partnerships of local or sectoral businesses which seek to invest in the betterment of their towns and city neighbourhoods. The 37 improvement districts in Scotland are very active in supporting the local economy and community at this difficult time, and are well-connected with the range of groups involved in local COVID-19 response efforts.
> Find your nearest improvement district on this map at Scotland’s Improvement Districts, as well as the weblink to make contact: http://www.lisad71.sg-host.com/our-members-where-they-are/
Development Trusts
These are community-led organisations using a combination of enterprise and creativity to improve the quality of life for local people in urban, rural and island communities across Scotland. Over 250 are members of the Development Trusts Association Scotland (DTAS).
> Find the Development Trusts in your area on the DTAS website here: https://dtascot.org.uk/dtas-member-network/our-members
Community Councils
These are voluntary organisation set up by statute by the Local Authority and run by local residents to act on behalf of its area. As well as representing the community to the local authority, Community Councils facilitate a wide range of activities which promote the well-being of their communities. They bring local people together to help make things happen.
> Find your local Community Council here: http://www.communitycouncils.scot/community-council-finder.html
