I retired a year ago and missed the contact I'd enjoyed with the public over a long period. Volunteering has helped me to meet new people and to do something I feel good about.

I would very much recommend befriending. The training and ongoing support offered by Birchwood is excellent

Mary Moran, volunteer,
Easter Ross

I compile articles, take photos, conduct interviews and put together the Lochaber service users' newsletter. I print it out and distribute it to service users and stakeholders every two months.

It's very interesting to do, and now with more people coming on board there's less collating to do, giving me more time to oversee the whole thing.

It's fun and a good way to know what others in Lochaber are doing. And it's really rewarding, especially when you get good feedback unexpectedly!

John Brooks, volunteer, Lochaber

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Volunteering with Birchwood Highland

We need more volunteers to help us in our work

Volunteers can make a contribution in many different ways. Here are just some:

*Eg boosting confidence in their use of email and internet, laying out a newsletter, involvement in a film or photography project, encouraging artistic or musical talents.

Meet Brian Smith, volunteer with
Birchwood Highland Lochaber

What do you do as a volunteer? I support the Birchwood United football team each Wednesday. I get really involved with fundraising, from sponsored walks to bag packing at the checkout. I also support individuals at social events and days out.

Why do you do it? I really enjoy it. I love talking to people and it gives me the opportunity to meet new friends.

Would you recommend getting involved? Absolutely - everyone should try it.

What do you get out of it? It helps me fill my time, I like to keep busy and it's great being able to call someone to watch the footie with.

The benefits and advantages of volunteering can include:

If you think you can spare the time, energy and talent to help us in any of these ways, we'd be delighted to hear from you.

Please get in touch with Head Office on 01463 236507, or Email info@birchwoodhighland.org.uk.

Approved Provider Standard (APS) accreditation

The Befriending Network Scotland has accredited Birchwood Highland as an Approved Provider of befriending services through volunteers.

This is a quality standard developed by the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation.

For more details of the Approved Provider Standard please visit www.mandbf.org.uk/approved_provider_standard/

Downloads

Volunteering with Birchwood Highland - information leaflet (PDF file)

Befriender factsheet (PDF file)

Volunteer Handbook revised 2010 (PDF file)

Volunteer application form (PDF file)

Volunteering while getting benefits - a DWP leaflet (PDF) which can be downloaded from the Directgov website,