It has been fascinating this month to reflect on the latest findings from Volunteer Scotland’s State of Scottish Volunteering research. This comprehensive report brings together a wide range of insights into participation, volunteer experience and the wider pressures affecting the sector.

Each element of the research offers something valuable in its own right. But when taken together, it provides a much fuller picture of where volunteering stands today – and where we need to focus our efforts next.

What is particularly striking is the balance within the findings. There is a great deal to be positive about, but also some very real and important challenges that we must continue to address.

As the report itself notes, “The evidence outlined in this report shows that there is great work being done across Scotland’s voluntary sector to increase volunteer participation and promote positive volunteer experiences. However, there are societal and sectoral challenges that impact on volunteering and risk undermining this hard-won progress.”

That balance is important. It recognises the fantastic work taking place across the sector, while also being clear that continued effort and collaboration are needed to sustain and build on that progress. The report highlights that volunteering in Scotland has faced significant pressures in recent years, with participation described as being in a period of real challenge.

The cost of living crisis, in particular, is making it harder for some people to give their time, even when the desire to contribute remains strong. At a time when many communities are experiencing increased need, that presents a very real tension.

And yet, alongside this, there are encouraging signs. Participation is beginning to increase again following recent declines, which is a positive and welcome development. It reflects both the resilience and generosity of volunteers, and the tremendous efforts of organisations across the sector to create meaningful opportunities and supportive environments.

I also had the pleasure of attending an excellent session facilitated by Volunteer Scotland, where over 50 organisations from across Scotland came together to discuss the findings and consider what actions we can take locally and nationally. It was a fantastic opportunity to share experiences, hear different perspectives and focus on how we continue to strengthen volunteering moving forward.

From those discussions, five key themes clearly emerged.

There is growing recognition that fragmented communities can make volunteering more difficult to sustain. Where connections are weaker, it becomes harder to engage people and build long-term involvement. At the same time, there are still inequalities in who volunteers, with some groups facing greater barriers to participation than others.

We are also seeing that some of the traditional pathways into volunteering are under pressure. Changes in services, funding and community structures mean that the routes many people once took into volunteering are not always as visible or accessible as they once were.

Encouragingly, participation is rising again – which is fantastic to see – but the report is clear that persistent challenges remain alongside this progress Perhaps most importantly, the importance of creating positive volunteer experiences continues to come through strongly. Feeling welcomed, supported and valued is absolutely key. It not only encourages people to get involved, but also ensures they continue their volunteering journey.

Here in Aberdeen, we see every day the marvellous impact that volunteering has on individuals, organisations and communities. We also know that this success does not happen by accident. It is built on strong partnerships, dedicated volunteer managers, supportive organisations and, of course, the commitment of volunteers themselves.

There is a tremendous opportunity here. By working together, responding to the challenges highlighted in this research and continuing to invest in positive volunteer experiences, we can ensure that volunteering remains inclusive, accessible and rewarding for everyone.

This is not just about sustaining what we already have – it is about building on it. I would strongly encourage anyone involved in volunteering, or interested in its future, to take the time to read the full report and reflect on its findings. It provides valuable insight, but also a clear and constructive call to action for us all.

This article originally appeared in the April 2026 edition of ACVO News, our free monthly digital magazine for and from Aberdeen’s third sector. Read and subscribe for free at acvo.org.uk/acvo-news