Why Volunteering Matters – In the Words of Midlothian’s Volunteers
This Volunteers’ Week, we are excited to share findings from our first-ever Midlothian-wide Volunteer Satisfaction Survey. This survey was created to better understand the impacts of volunteering on volunteers themselves, to enhance volunteer support and help organisations better demonstrate their impact.
This year is our first iteration of the survey, and as such was only shared for a limited time with a hand full of Volunteer Involving Organisations (VIOs). We were please to receive 68 responses from volunteers across Midlothian, sharing their reflections on how volunteering has shaped their wellbeing, skills, confidence, and connection to their community. The responses paint a powerful picture:
- 99% said volunteering helped them achieve their goals
- 98% said volunteering has helped them make a difference in others’ lives.
- 93% of weekly volunteers feel more connected to their community
“Life-changing. Astounded by the skill of the staff and other partners to provide inclusive opportunities. Proud to be a part of my project and I feel my contribution is well valued.”
Many spoke about the joy of feeling useful, learning new things, and making real connections across generations. These insights help shine a light on the often-unseen personal benefits of volunteering—and why creating good volunteer experiences matters.
“Volunteering has been a really positive experience for me mentally, physically, and socially.”
We plan to build on these insights by running the survey every year and opening it up to even more volunteers and organisations. Thank you to everyone who took part—and to the volunteers who continue to support our communities to thrive.
Read more insights from the survey:
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