Glasgow’s Lord Provost has paid a heartfelt tribute to the city’s volunteers, recognising their vital contributions during National Volunteers Week. The annual celebration highlights the selfless efforts of individuals who give their time to support communities across the city.
Lord Provost Philip Braat said: “I am delighted, this National Volunteers Week, to take the opportunity to personally thank everybody who volunteers. I know everyone across the city will agree, this unprecedented pandemic has shone an important spotlight on the value and importance of those who choose to volunteer.”
The pandemic brought challenges unlike any other, but it also revealed the strength and resilience of Glasgow’s communities. Volunteers stepped up in remarkable ways, from delivering essential supplies to offering emotional support to those in isolation. Their efforts have been a lifeline for many, particularly during the height of the crisis.
City-based charity Volunteer Glasgow has been at the forefront of this effort, supporting local organisations and connecting people with volunteering opportunities. Their work has been instrumental in coordinating the response to the Covid-19 ‘Scotland Cares’ national recruitment drive, launched by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in March. The campaign has seen an incredible 4,450 offers of help from Glaswegians, showcasing the city’s spirit of generosity.
Volunteer Glasgow manages the city’s online platform, which acts as a hub for connecting volunteers with charities, community groups, clubs, and public sector programmes. The team provides guidance, matching individuals’ skills, interests, and experiences to suitable opportunities. This personalised approach ensures that volunteers can make the most meaningful impact.
David Maxwell, Volunteer Glasgow’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re encouraging people to join us and demonstrate their personal thanks for those who have volunteered over the last 12 months – before and after lockdown. Including the people who have offered their help during this national Covid-19 crisis response but haven’t yet been able to do so. It’s been inspiring to see so many helping neighbours and working with organisations to provide support across the city during this pandemic.”
The charity has also launched initiatives to celebrate volunteers, including downloadable thank-you cards and window posters. These small gestures allow the community to express their gratitude and acknowledge the incredible work being done behind the scenes.
The Lord Provost added: “Glaswegians are famous for their kindness and compassion. It is that sense of solidarity that motivates people to give their time to help others. At times of national crisis like this, it gives us all hope for the future.”
He continued: “These are challenging times, and we can all become overwhelmed by the competing demands we face. So it is really important to celebrate volunteers across this city and beyond. Time is a precious commodity – and they donate theirs. That generosity of spirit is what makes Glasgow so special. We all know that ‘People Make Glasgow’ a great place to live, work, study, and visit.”
Reflecting on his own experiences, the Lord Provost shared: “I have been lending my support to a range of volunteering groups throughout this crisis, and it has been humbling to meet everyone working selflessly across our communities and to witness the real difference they make to those they help. I thank them all for their energy, enthusiasm, skill, and experience. Your gift of time, hard work, and support is a national cause for celebration and gratitude.”
For those inspired to get involved, Volunteer Glasgow’s digital platform offers a straightforward way to sign up and explore opportunities. Whether you’re an individual looking to volunteer or an organisation in need of support, the platform connects people with the resources they need to make a difference.
How to Get Involved:
- Individuals: Sign up to volunteer and search for opportunities at https://opportunities.volunteerglasgow.org or call the Glasgow Helps phone line on 0141 345 0543 (option 2).
- New Organisations: Register at https://opportunities.volunteerglasgow.org/vk/providers/registration_provider.htm or call 0141 345 0543 (option 3).
- Registered Organisations: Log in at https://opportunities.volunteerglasgow.org/vk/providers/login.htm. For login issues, contact findvolunteers@volunteerglasgow.org or call 0141 345 0543 (option 3).
As National Volunteers Week continues, it’s a time to reflect on the power of community and the difference one person can make. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or considering giving your time for the first time, your contribution matters. Together, we can ensure Glasgow remains a city defined by its compassion and resilience.
