What’s Happening in the Third Sector?
Launch of Volunteer Scotland’s 2026 Scottish Parliament Election Manifesto
Volunteer Scotland has just launched its 2026 Scottish Parliament Manifesto, setting out a bold vision for the future of volunteering in Scotland.
The message is clear: volunteers are the lifeblood of Scotland’s communities. Almost half of all Scottish adults (48%) give their time to support others – strengthening local networks, boosting wellbeing, and helping communities thrive.
As we head towards next year’s Scottish Parliament elections, Volunteer Scotland is calling on all political parties to put volunteering firmly on the agenda.
“An inclusive and sustainable future for volunteering must be at the top of the agenda for the upcoming Scottish Parliament election.”
Alan Stevenson, CEO of Volunteer Scotland.
The manifesto highlights that while volunteering participation is recovering after a period of decline, inclusion gaps are widening – not everyone has equal access to the benefits of volunteering.
Volunteer Scotland aims to build cross-party consensus on the policies that can help create a more inclusive, thriving culture of volunteering across the nation.
You can read the full manifesto and its ten key asks here.
New Strategy from Volunteering Matters
Volunteering Matters has unveiled a bold new strategy to shape the future of volunteering across the UK. Rooted in the voices of volunteers and communities, it focuses on five key areas of change:
- Combatting loneliness – connecting generations and supporting young carers through befriending projects.
- Improving health and wellbeing – using volunteering to boost mental health, fitness, and local green spaces.
- Breaking down barriers – ensuring everyone can contribute and benefit, from young leaders to volunteers with additional needs.
- Empowering communities – helping families and neighbourhoods take charge of their own futures.
- Building social cohesion – creating understanding and unity across generations and communities.
It’s an inspiring vision for a fairer, more connected society powered by volunteers.
Read the full strategy and get involved here.
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