The value of volunteering

Friendship volunteer, Nicky was matched with VIP, Sheila over a year ago and the pair are now great friends. Our friendship matches are based on your mutual interests, so you can build a natural friendship over time. Here’s Sheila and Nicky’s story…

At Vintage Vibes, there are many ways that you can tackle loneliness through volunteering. Whether you join us a fabulous friendship volunteer, or offer your valuable support as a community fundraising champion, or donate your time to supporting our events, special projects or donate your skills as an office volunteer, you will be making a massive difference to older people in your community!

Thanks for your interest in volunteering with Vintage Vibes! Unfortunately, at the moment we don’t have capacity to take on new volunteers. We’d love to be able to get back in touch with you once we are able to accept new volunteers. If you would like us to get in touch then you can leave your details on THIS form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we are able to do so.

We’re a Volunteer Charter Champion!

Vintage Vibes has signed up to the Volunteer Charter to show our commitment to supporting our volunteers and encouraging healthy volunteering practices. We offer training and support, along with a dedicated team member to assist with any questions you may have along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to reveal the answer.

Q: How do I volunteer in Edinburgh with Vintage Vibes?

A: Firstly, have a think about what you can offer: how much time can you realistically give up each week? Would you like to visit on a one-to-one basis, or take someone out and about? Then, get in touch with us at hello@vintagevibes.org.uk or you can sign up directly through our Volunteer Online Form!

Q: How old do I have to be?

A: We’re looking for anyone between 17 and, well . . . the sky’s the limit!

Q: What time commitment is required?

A: The key aim of Vintage Vibes is to offer long-lasting friendships and create sustainable networks for people who are isolated and/or lonely in Edinburgh. So to volunteer in Edinburgh with Vintage Vibes, we’re asking you to commit to a minimum of six months, and ask that you be able to take part at least once a week for an hour or two during the day time.

Q: I work full time, can I volunteer?

A: Yes! We have lots of volunteers who visit their VIP at the weekend or after work (although most VIPs prefer a daytime visit). We are very happy to be flexible to allow you to volunteer around other commitments.

Q: How do you decide who I’ll be spending time with?

A: We’ll ask you about your interests and general likes, and how you think you might be able to help. Do you have a dog, for example, who could come with you on visits? Or perhaps you’re sporty and could help someone keep active, or reminisce about sport with them. Whatever you have to offer, we want to help match you with someone with shared interests and experiences.

Q: Do I need a PVG?

A: As you are volunteering with protected adults, Vintage Vibes will apply for you to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme. This is a lifelong membership and is free to join if you are a volunteer through us. If you are an existing member of the PVG scheme, we just have to do an update.

Q: How long does the process take?

A: Our friendships are about finding the best match for you, and sometimes, if we’re honest, that can take a little time (but it’s worth it!). Whilst we are waiting for your references and PVG to come back, we’ll make sure you’re invited to our training sessions and you are more than welcome to come along to the volunteer social events that we hold every 2 months so you can get to know other wonderful volunteers.

Q: Do you offer training and ongoing support?

A: Absolutely! Volunteers are the cornerstone of Vintage Vibes, so we’re committed to ensuring you’re valued and supported. We hold a volunteer induction session with other volunteers, as well as regular check-ins with your Friendships Coordinator.

Q: Are expenses covered?

A: Yes! As a Vintage Vibes volunteer in Edinburgh, we cover reasonable travel expenses to and from your volunteering, as well as teas/coffees and ticket costs whilst volunteering.

Get in touch: hello@vintagevibes.org.uk

Or you can sign up directly through our Volunteer Online Form!

Is This You?

Want to volunteer in Edinburgh? We have a wide range of fabulous volunteering roles to suit your availability and skills!

We are looking for lovely local Edinburgh people who have day time availability to be matched 1-1 with a VIP, to create a friendship based on shared interests.

We also have some great support and office roles. If you think you can be the difference – read on for more information on how you can help!

OUR GOAL

Our goal is to tackle isolation and loneliness and to encourage VIPs to become more active in their local communities.

As a Friendship Volunteer YOUR ROLE WILL INCLUDE:

Visiting your VIP once per week.
Creating a wonderful friendship with them.

YOUR AVAILABILITY TO VOLUNTEER IN EDINBURGH

You must be free to volunteer in Edinburgh for a period of at least 6 months.
Morning or afternoon availability, once per week for at least 1 hour.

VOLUNTEER EXPENSES

You can claim expenses for travel, as well as teas/coffees whilst out with your VIP.

No previous skills or experience are necessary. You just need to have an open and friendly approach!

Interested? Give us a call on 0131 343 0955 or email hello@vintagevibes.org.uk

Download the friendship Volunteer Role Description here.

Looking for other ways to make a difference and use your amazing skills and experience to tackle local loneliness? Here are some other fabulous volunteering roles that might be of interest: