The Power of Volunteering: Insights from Midlothian Volunteers 2026
To kick off Volunteers’ Week 2026, we are excited to share findings from our Midlothian-wide Volunteer Satisfaction Survey. The 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 second edition of the survey, which we hope to carry out annually and build upon year after year. We were please to receive 62 responses from volunteers across Midlothian, sharing their reflections on how volunteering has shaped their wellbeing, skills, confidence, and connection to their community. The responses clearly show the many positive impacts of volunteering:
- 99% said volunteering helped them achieve their goals
- 94% said they feel more a part of their community.
- 90% said they have gained confidence & self-esteem.
- 95% said they have made new contacts or friendships.
“Has been a great way of getting my self-confidence and self-esteem back and feel I am included in the community with my interaction with other volunteers and staff.”
Many spoke about increased confidence and self-esteem, stronger social connections, feeling more part of their community, improved health and wellbeing, and opportunities to develop and use their skills. These insights help highlight the often unseen personal benefits of volunteering, and the importance of creating positive volunteer experiences.
“Wonderful organisation doing great work for the community and great to give others the benefit of my expertise when doing a workshop.“
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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