Volunteer roles in scotland

Are you fascinated by the marine world?  Would you like to use your skills, creativity and energy to help us improve knowledge of the marine environment and promote its importance and value?  Are you interested in widening your horizons?  If any of these apply to you, you might just be the person we are looking for to join our Board.

The Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) is an independent marine research organisation, founded in 1884, and one of the world’s oldest oceanographic institutions.  Based on the west coast of Scotland, near Oban, SAMS is a registered charity and Company Limited by Guarantee.

The Scottish Association for Marine Science has a positive attitude towards diversity.  We are committed to equality of opportunity and inclusivity amongst our staff and students: we aim to achieve balanced gender representation in our Board membership.

We are committed to:

• The creation of new knowledge about the marine environment through undertaking world leading and innovative research;
• The dissemination of that knowledge, not only through inspirational formal educational programmes, with our principal partner, the University of the Highlands and Islands, but also the enhancement of societal awareness through our public engagement activities;
• Using our knowledge to provide solutions for the ethical and sustainable use of marine resources, both in our local environment and internationally.

SAMS research spans the breadth of marine science, tackling the Grand Challenges facing the World today.  We work on diverse interdisciplinary research questions, focusing on three major challenges:

• To discover the physical and biological processes that drive the marine environment.
• To describe and quantify how coastal environments respond to ever-increasing pressures.
• To develop a sustainable blue economy.

We are seeking new TRUSTEES to join the SAMS Board, commencing in late Autumn 2025.

In general, individuals are sought who can demonstrate one or more of the following:

• An ability to operate strategically and collaboratively towards common goals.
• Background in marine / environmental science research
• Experience of higher education
• Background in finance, risk/compliance and/or law.
• Background in media and communication, and/or public engagement
• Senior operational role in a university, research or third sector organisation.
• Experience of building effective philanthropic / fundraising relationships and networks.
• Demonstration of a strong commitment to equality and diversity.

On this occasion we are seeking individuals who can help strengthen the scientific complement, finance and audit.  We are also seeking to appoint a new ambitious role: a trustee to act as a representative of the Ocean.  SAMS has taken the bold step to ensure that SAMS governance is not exclusively anthropocentric.  This trustee role will be the first time we have recruited for the position and the person appointed will help develop the role.

These positions are unremunerated.  Appointments will be for an initial three-year term that may be extended for up to a further three-years.  The minimum time commitment, including preparation for and participation in formal committee meetings, is approximately 10 days per annum.  There are a number of sub-committees of the Board, and most Trustees are also members of these committees, for which extra time commitment of two or three days is required.  Most meetings are held in Oban, the other half online.  Should travel expenses be incurred these will be reimbursed. 

Application for the role is by:

• covering letter indicating which role (or roles) interest you; and
• a short CV

The deadline for applications of 28 September 2025.  Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview virtually in October with the possibility of face-to-face interviews later.

SAMS Group is committed to being an equal and open organisation. Diversity and inclusion are important to us, and we strive to remove any barriers that may prevent people from applying to join us. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, and from all who share our values and can help us to broaden our knowledge and range of ideas. 

Join our amazing volunteer team to make a real difference to people living with sight loss. You’ll be Supporting blind and partially sighted people and family members in our Edinburgh Community Equipment and Advice centre. Whatever the task we want our customers to have access to the same Technology as their sighted peers and ensuring they can live life as independently as possible.

What you’ll be doing
• Meeting and greeting community members on arrival.
• Assist customers with items such as tablets and phones in order for customers to make the best use of them.
• Downloading the latest apps, helping customers with visual enhancements or spending time with customers to learn voice over.
• Providing a warm atmosphere in order to enhance the learning experience.

What you’ll gain from the role
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A broader understanding of technology to assist blind and partially sighted people.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people.
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

Volunteers are needed for weekdays between 9am – 5pm for around 4-8 hours a week.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• This role requires 1 reference and a PVG.

Location

• RNIB Scotland, 12 – 14 Hillside Crescent, Edinburgh EH7 5EA.

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 16 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• You’ll ideally have • An interest in technology and apps • A sociable personality. • A commitment to working towards a society where people with sight loss are equal participants.

Seeking Conference Planner to coordinate logistics, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure a seamless conference experience for attendees of our upcoming conference.

DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

The IWI Conference Planner will be responsible for the full lifecycle of an event, from strategic planning and budgeting to on-site logistics and post-event evaluation, ensuring the event aligns with The IWI's mission and goals. Key duties include venue and vendor selection, budget management, marketing and attendee registration, speaker and sponsor coordination, managing event staff and volunteers, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and reporting on event success to leadership. This role requires strong project management, budget management, communication, and negotiation skills to deliver a high-quality experience within financial constraints.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Event Strategy & Planning:

Collaborate with stakeholders to define event goals, themes, and target audiences, and develop comprehensive plans and timelines.

Budget Management:

Create and manage event budgets, identifying cost-effective solutions, securing sponsorships, and tracking expenditures to meet financial objectives.

Logistics & Operations:

Oversee all logistical aspects, including venue selection, vendor management (catering, AV, decor), and event setup and breakdown.

Marketing & Communication:

Develop and implement marketing and promotion strategies to attract attendees, manage attendee registrations, and ensure smooth communication before and during the event.

Stakeholder & Speaker Management:

Coordinate with internal teams, external partners, and speakers, managing contracts and ensuring all logistical needs are met.

On-site Management:

Provide leadership and support on the day of the event, troubleshooting issues, coordinating staff and volunteers, and ensuring the event runs smoothly.

Post-Event Activities:

Conduct post-event evaluations, analyse success metrics, gather feedback, and prepare reports to inform future events.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

Project Management:

Strong ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise deadlines, and develop detailed event plans.

Budget Management:

Proficiency in creating, managing, and adhering to budgets.

Communication & Negotiation:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact with diverse stakeholders and negotiate with vendors.

Organisational Skills:

Meticulous attention to detail to manage complex logistics and ensure all event components are coordinated effectively.

Problem-Solving:

Ability to think on your feet, identify roadblocks, and provide timely, thoughtful solutions to unexpected challenges.

Tech Savvy:

Experience with various event platforms and tools for virtual and in-person events.

Passion for The IWI's Mission:

Understanding and alignment with the organisation's core mission to effectively promote and execute relevant events.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience in conference planning or event management, with a track record of successful event execution.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and trends in conference planning and management.
• Knowledge with sponsorship and donor acquisition.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and event management software.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to work autonomously and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required for conference.
• Familiarity with budget management and financial tracking for conferences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Location: Fully flexible / Remote – open to applicants anywhere in the UK
Time Commitment: Approx. 2 – 4 hours per month

About Us
Unseen Expeditions UK is a newly forming Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) supporting mission-led charities and expedition projects across the UK and internationally. Our flagship initiative, The Unseen Mile, is a 4.5-year journey covering 25,000 miles across 37 countries. Through this and future projects, we aim to inspire, raise awareness for important causes, and share unique storytelling and learning experiences from the field.

We are currently recruiting our initial trustee board to help launch and register the charity.

Role Overview
We are seeking a General Trustee to join our board, support strategic decision-making, and help ensure effective governance. This is a key role in shaping the charity’s early operations, supporting registration, and contributing to the delivery of our mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend quarterly trustee meetings (in person or virtually) and participate in board decision-making

• Support governance, strategy, and operational planning for the CIO

• Contribute ideas, experience, and skills to help the charity grow

• Assist with compliance, reporting, and adherence to charity law and CIO regulations

• Support trustee recruitment, induction, and development as needed

Person Specification & Requirements

• Interest in charity governance, mental health, and expedition-led projects

• Willingness to work collaboratively with a small, remote trustee team

• Commitment to the mission and values of Unseen Expeditions and its partnered charities

• Comfortable working remotely and communicating online with a UK-wide board

• UK-based (required for legal trustee responsibilities)

• Approx. 2 - 4 hours per month commitment (more during start-up if possible)

• Basic tools for communication (email, phone, video calls)

What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to help shape and govern a new, high-profile charity from launch

• Hands-on experience in charity leadership and governance

• Contribution to awareness-raising and adventure-led impact projects

• Recognition for your role in mission-driven initiatives, including The Unseen Mile and future projects

• Flexible, fully remote role within a passionate, purpose-driven team

We are searching for a enthusiastic volunteer to become thd Leeds chapter's Social Media Officer. The primary role is to ensure the smooth every day running of the social media accounts. This involves responding to messages (even if it’s just sign posting) and replying to comments. They should try to ensure growth of the social media account including Facebook and Instagram with the potential of Twitter. They should make use of the Facebook groups to create an engaging atmosphere for members and chase lead volunteers to ensure they post on the page and group promptly following events. After each event they should make posts following up on it. Finally, they will liaise with photographers and assist with designing and running the website

Thank you for your interest in volunteering as a Video Editor for the International Humanity Foundation (IHF)! We are looking for talented and creative individuals to help us produce visually compelling content that highlights our mission to provide education to underprivileged children.

Role Requirements

As a Video Editor, you will:

• Edit raw footage into polished and engaging videos.
• Add graphics, animations, and subtitles to enhance video quality.
• Collaborate with the podcast and media teams to create promotional materials.
• Work on highlight reels and trailers to showcase IHF’s work and podcast content.
• Ensure all videos align with IHF’s branding and storytelling goals.

Skills We Value

• Proficiency in video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve).
• Creative storytelling through visual media.
• Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Experience in graphic design or animation is a plus.
• A collaborative and flexible attitude.

Benefits of Volunteering with IHF

By joining our team, you will:

• Gain valuable experience in video editing and storytelling for a global nonprofit.
• Build your portfolio with impactful content.
• Collaborate with a diverse, creative, and passionate team.
• Contribute to a cause that empowers underprivileged children through education.
• Receive a certificate of recognition and appreciation for your contributions.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering as an Audio Editor for the International Humanity Foundation (IHF)! We are seeking skilled and detail-oriented individuals to help us produce high-quality audio content for our podcast and other media initiatives.

Role Requirements

As an Audio Editor, you will:

• Edit and enhance raw audio recordings for clarity and quality.
• Mix and master audio tracks to produce professional results.
• Remove background noise, balance audio levels, and add sound effects as needed.
• Collaborate with the podcast team to align audio with the intended narrative.
• Ensure timely delivery of polished audio for podcast episodes and other projects.

Skills We Value

• Proficiency in audio editing software (e.g., Audacity, Adobe Audition, Pro Tools).
• Attention to detail and strong listening skills.
• Experience with sound design or music editing is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Creativity in enhancing the listener’s experience through sound.

Benefits of Volunteering with IHF

By joining our team, you will:

• Develop your audio editing and sound design skills.
• Build a portfolio of professionally produced podcasts and audio projects.
• Collaborate with a diverse and talented team.
• Make a meaningful impact by helping amplify the voices of children and communities in need.
• Receive a certificate of recognition and appreciation for your contributions.

Events Officer has the responisbility of organising (along with the help of a Trustee Events Manager) our magical visits to children/adults with LD, this could be at the hospital, social groups, refugee centres, libraries etc etc.

They will monitor the chapter email for submitted event booking forms (some of these will come from events organised by the Events Manager on Trustees). These will then be added to the calendar and advertised to volunteers. They will ensure each event organised has a handful of volunteers confirmed within a week of the event itself. They will then provide information and support to a Lead Volunteer to run the events. They will ensure that regular events are being attended by volunteers and that they have the costume and materials that are needed for these. They will follow up after events to ensure social media posts are made, hours are uploaded and that costumes are returned. They will ensure that all volunteers are attending events.

The VP's role is to aid the president with all of their responsibilities in overseeing the chapter. VP might help run the chapter and become responsible for some activities. Helping to coordinate their committee to ensure that all of the needs of the charity are met and the law, constitution and handbook are not broken.

This role is important in order to have a smooth running chapter, so that the magic of our visits are at their full potential! We are searching for a enthusiastic and hard working volunteer to support the President in Newcastle!

Organization: International Humanity Foundation (IHF)

Location:Remote

Volunteer with the International Humanity Foundation (IHF) – Donated Hours Team

Are you highly organized and passionate about promoting transparency and accountability? The International Humanity Foundation (IHF) is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our Donated Hours Team, a vital group responsible for tracking the time donated by volunteers across all departments.

At IHF, we believe that every hour given to support our mission matters. The Donated Hours Team plays a crucial role in ensuring that all volunteer hours are accurately recorded, reported, and reviewed to maintain the integrity of our global volunteer program.

What You’ll Do:

- Monitor and document hours donated by volunteers across various IHF teams.

- Collaborate with team leads to ensure accurate and timely submissions of hours.

- Maintain up-to-date records using shared spreadsheets or tracking tools.

- Support the transparency of IHF’s volunteer system by providing regular reports and flagging inconsistencies when necessary.

- Ensure donated hours align with IHF’s long-term volunteer commitment policies.

Why Join IHF’s Donated Hours Team?

- Make an Impact: Help maintain the transparency and integrity of a global nonprofit.

- Build Valuable Skills: Develop experience in record-keeping, data management, and remote coordination.

- Flexible Volunteering: Contribute from anywhere in the world, with a schedule that works for you.

- Be Part of a Global Family: Connect with volunteers and team members from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Requirements:

- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.

- Basic knowledge of Google Sheets or Excel for tracking and organizing data.

- Ability to follow structured processes and maintain confidentiality.

- Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a remote team.

- Commitment to volunteering 1–3 hours per week, ideally on a long-term basis.

- Must be 18 years or older and comfortable working in a multicultural environment.

Who are we looking for?

At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to expand its reach.

As a Volunteer Integrated Technology Project Lead with Living Reasons, you will oversee the project management of technology integration across all aspects of our operations, including both software and hardware. Working closely with the funding team, you will design and deliver project plans that attract funding and ensure resources are used effectively and in line with funding agreements. You will also lead on the procurement of hardware from third-party suppliers, including organisations that support non-profits with technology solutions.

In collaboration with Technology Coordinators, you will use user feedback to guide the development of software that is accessible, adaptable, and reliable for a diverse demographic of users. This role will also focus on driving innovation—creating solutions that not only strengthen Living Reasons but also have the potential to be developed and supplied to other businesses or end users through the organisation. By leading on strategy, coordination, and delivery, you will ensure that Living Reasons harnesses technology in innovative and sustainable ways that maximise impact.

What is the plan?

The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.

Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:

1) Outdated and damaging employment practices

2) Accessibility to services

3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities

4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need

5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society

6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged

7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels

8) Abuse of power in government bodies

9) Poor access to healthcare

10)  Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations

11)  Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life

12)  Outdated company engagement with the public

13)  Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed

Our Living Values -

Creativity

1) Imaginative Development (Individual)

2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)

3) Changing The Status Quo (External)

Prospectivity

1) What Can You Do (Individual)

2) What Can We Do (Internal)

3) What Can They Do (External)

Revolutionary 

1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)

2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)

3) Challenge Traditions (External)

Attentivity

1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)

2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)

3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)

Who are we looking for?

At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to expand its reach.

As a Volunteer Technology Coordinator with Living Reasons, you will help shape the charity’s digital future by integrating and developing innovative technology into our operations. This role focuses on creating effective, accessible, and inclusive solutions that enhance user experiences through both hardware and software. Depending on skills and interests, this may involve app or systems development, digital project management, and supporting reasonable adjustments to improve accessibility. Guided by user feedback and needs-based planning, you will play a vital part in ensuring our services are adaptable, engaging, and supportive for all who connect with Living Reasons

What is the plan?

The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.

Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:

1) Outdated and damaging employment practices

2) Accessibility to services

3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities

4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need

5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society

6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged

7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels

8) Abuse of power in government bodies

9) Poor access to healthcare

10)  Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations

11)  Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life

12)  Outdated company engagement with the public

13)  Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed

Our Living Values -

Creativity

1) Imaginative Development (Individual)

2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)

3) Changing The Status Quo (External)

Prospectivity

1) What Can You Do (Individual)

2) What Can We Do (Internal)

3) What Can They Do (External)

Revolutionary 

1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)

2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)

3) Challenge Traditions (External)

Attentivity

1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)

2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)

3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)

SEED Madagascar is seeking a Pro Bono PR & Media Consultant to expand the organisation’s international visibility and amplify awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing communities in Madagascar. This role will focus on securing high-profile media coverage, cultivating relationships with journalists, and identifying opportunities for SEED’s voice to be featured internationally. We are looking for an experienced PR professional with existing contacts and proven expertise in media outreach who is motivated to use their skills to contribute to sustainable development and conservation. About the organisation SEED Madagascar is a British Charity working in partnership with communities in the southeast of Madagascar. We integrate high quality community health, sustainable livelihoods, education infrastructure and conservation programmes to support long term, sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication across all of our programmatic areas.

Location: Remote

Timeframe: Long-term, part-time, flexible (approx. 1–2 days per week)

Duties and responsibilities

● Identify and secure opportunities for SEED’s work and stories to be featured in international news outlets, podcasts, and other platforms.

● Leverage existing media contacts and networks to build SEED’s global visibility.

● Draft, edit, and pitch press releases, op-eds, and feature stories that communicate SEED’s mission and impact.

● Provide strategic advice to SEED’s Media & Communications team on positioning and PR best practices.

● Arrange interviews, guest articles, and media appearances for SEED staff and leadership.

● Monitor and report on media coverage, highlighting reach and impact.

● Support capacity building within SEED’s communications team, sharing knowledge and contacts where relevant.

Person specification

Essential

● Significant professional experience in PR, journalism, or media outreach.

● Strong existing network of international media contacts, with proven success in placing stories.

● Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to pitch compelling narratives.

● Strategic mindset with the ability to advise and mentor less experienced team members.

● Self-motivated, flexible, and able to work independently in a remote context.

● Commitment to SEED’s ethos, values, and mission, with cultural sensitivity and respect.

Desirable

● Experience working with NGOs, particularly in development, conservation, or humanitarian fields.

● Knowledge of Madagascar or wider global south contexts

At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to expand its reach.

The role

As a Volunteer Outreach Coordinator with Living Reasons, you will play a key role in connecting people and communities with our mission. This remote role focuses on finding creative and innovative ways to engage new supporters, build partnerships with local businesses, and strengthen community links. Working primarily online, with opportunities to connect in your local area, you will help raise awareness of our work, communicate our message, and develop meaningful relationships that support the growth of the charity. By fostering engagement and exploring new ideas for community-led projects, you will contribute to building a stronger support network and, where appropriate, generate vital income through donations.

What is the plan?

The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.

Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:

1) Outdated and damaging employment practices

2) Accessibility to services

3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities

4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need

5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society

6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged

7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels

8) Abuse of power in government bodies

9) Poor access to healthcare

10)  Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations

11)  Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life

12)  Outdated company engagement with the public

13)  Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed

Our Living Values -

Creativity

1) Imaginative Development (Individual)

2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)

3) Changing The Status Quo (External)

Prospectivity

1) What Can You Do (Individual)

2) What Can We Do (Internal)

3) What Can They Do (External)

Revolutionary 

1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)

2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)

3) Challenge Traditions (External)

Attentivity

1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)

2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)

3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)