Investing in Volunteers awarded for sixth time

Scotland’s national children’s charity has achieved a prestigious volunteering accolade for the sixth time, following a long record of helping people gain skills, confidence and make a difference to children and families lives through volunteer work. 

Children 1st has achieved the Investing in Volunteers quality standard, a UK-wide scheme for organisations involving volunteers which recognises quality volunteering experiences. Achieving the standard demonstrates how much organisations value the contribution of volunteers. 

Just under 100 volunteers are registered with Children 1st, working across the charity including with Children 1st Parentline, local children and family wellbeing teams and fundraising. From running marathons, to befriending children to help build their confidence, the charity could not support children and families without them.  

Regional volunteer co-ordinators Carole Nicol (west) and Jude Wilson (east) have shared their delight at achieving the standard. 

They said: “We are proud to have achieved the Investing in Volunteers award for the sixth time. Our volunteers bring us their energy, skills and experience and make a positive difference to the lives of children and families across Scotland.  

“Volunteering can also boost your skills and confidence and help prepare for future career opportunities. 

“Investing in Volunteers is the UK quality standard for good practice in volunteer management and is part of our commitment to providing all of our volunteers with a quality and positive experience and valuing the contribution they make."

Volunteers have also shared their experiences of working with the organisation.  

A Children 1st Parentline volunteer said the experience had increased their confidence in their abilities and led to a new career.  

The volunteer said: “I first saw an advert looking for volunteers for Children 1st Parentline on social media.  

“Having spent the previous 10 years bringing up my children I felt the time was right to do something for myself and I thought it made sense to apply as a volunteer. Volunteering at Children 1st Parentline, you develop valuable and very transferable communication and listening skills.

“My time at Children 1st Parentline has increased my confidence in my abilities and has since led me into employment  in a job that I would not have thought about or have had the relevant skills to approach, had it not been for the skills I’ve learnt at Children 1st Parentline.  

“I would say if you’re thinking about volunteering, just go for it. Everyone has something to bring and it can lead you to places that you might not have thought about or even thought possible.” 

If you’re keen to make a real and lasting difference to children and families and are a people person with a few hours a week to spare, we are looking for Family Wellbeing and Befriending volunteers for our East Renfrewshire children and families service.  

For more details please contact Carole Nicol, email:  volunteer@children1st.org.uk