As a local charity, Instant Neighbour relies heavily on the dedication of its team of volunteers. From sorting donations and preparing food parcels, to answering phone calls and organising deliveries, volunteers are at the heart of everything the organisation does. Without their time and commitment, many of these services simply wouldn’t be possible.

Speaking with two of their volunteers, Ken and Kimberley share what brought them to Instant Neighbour, what they do day-to-day and the difference volunteering has made in their lives.

Ken

Ken has been volunteering at Instant Neighbour’s food bank for around 18 months, where he describes his role as varied and hands-on.

“One minute you can be handling deliveries and donations, the next you’re stocking shelves or putting together food parcels,” he explains.

After taking voluntary redundancy in 2020 and experiencing some health issues, Ken found himself feeling increasingly isolated. Volunteering became the perfect opportunity to connect with people again.

Since joining, Ken describes his experience as incredibly positive: “It’s the people that make Instant Neighbour. The staff and volunteers are a lovely bunch.”

For Ken, volunteering has also helped improve his mental wellbeing, as he says:

“My mental health had deteriorated a wee bit and I just needed to get back out into the world again. Volunteering has really helped with this – it’s been a hugely positive experience for me personally.”

Highlighting the wider importance, Ken concludes by saying: “Charities rely heavily on volunteers so it’s nice to know that you’re giving something back. My time here so far has been great and I hope to continue volunteering.”

Kimberley

Kimberley volunteers a couple of afternoons each week as an admin volunteer, supporting the organisation behind the scenes.

“I mainly answer the phones – booking deliveries, arranging donation pick-ups and dealing with any general queries,” she says.

After taking a career break to raise her son, Kimberley started thinking about returning to work but found the idea quite daunting.

“Being a stay-at-home mum for almost five years, you lose a bit of confidence in the real world. You forget what a work environment is like,” she explains.

“Volunteering was the confidence boost that I needed and reminded me what I am capable of.”

Kimberley also found the role eye-opening in terms of the charity’s impact: “I didn’t realise how much Instant Neighbour does locally. It’s really good being a part of something meaningful and giving back my time through volunteering.”

She describes her experience as both fulfilling and rewarding, encouraging others to give it a go too: “I’m so glad that I came to volunteer at Instant Neighbour. It’s a really good stepping stone back into work, has helped me rediscover skills and reminded me what I can achieve – I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Get Involved

Instant Neighbour continues to play a crucial role in supporting individuals and families across Aberdeen. While donations and funding are essential, the team of volunteers greatly support the day-today running of the organisation – offering practical help, compassion and a sense of community.

Whether supporting the food bank, helping out with administration or working in the charity shop, volunteers make a huge difference to people’s lives whilst also gaining valuable experience and connection.

If you’re considering volunteering, Instant Neighbour offers a wide variety of roles to get involved with – find out more on their website at www.instantneighbour.co.uk

This article originally appeared in the May 2026 edition of ACVO News, our free monthly digital magazine featuring a spotlight on the local third sector in Aberdeen and all those who work in it and make a positive impact in the city.

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