Under 25?
Most organisations are keen to involve young volunteers as they welcome the enthusiasm, fresh ideas and diversity young people can bring. However, some volunteering opportunities have age restrictions. There are lots of valid reasons for this, but unfortunately it limits the number of opportunities that young people, especially those under the age of 16 years old can get involved with.
If you would like to discuss volunteering and are under 25 please contact the Youth Services Team on 0131 660 1216.
Alternatively, you can view and register for volunteering opportunities on our database
MV Awards
MV Awards provide 16-25 year old volunteers with the chance to gain formal recognition for their volunteering. Through MV Awards, you can gain up to 3 certificates over a two year period. Certificates are achieved on completion of 50, 100 and 200 hours of Volunteering.
Endorsed by the Scottish Government, MV Awards are delivered locally by Volunteer Centres.
How can MV Awards benefit me?
MV Awards can help you:
- Highlight your CV
- Receive formal recognition for your achievements
- Look forward to a positive future
Who can take part in MV Awards?
Any young person between the ages of 16-25 years old who lives in Scotland can register for MV. The young person can volunteer individually or as part of a group.
How do I register for MV Awards?
To register for MV Awards simply contact Karen Downie on 0131 660 1216.
Karen will arrange to meet with you and complete a quick registration form, advise you on keeping note of volunteering hours, and how to claim certificates.
Transform Project
Transform is a supported volunteering project run by Volunteer Centre Midlothian, designed specifically for young people between the ages of 15 and 20. Transform consists of two opportunities: the Supported Befriending project and the Supported Environmental project. These opportunities are aimed at young people who are at school or have recently left and would like to take a first step in developing skills which will lead to a positive future.
The Supported Befriending project aims to train young people as befrienders before progressing to attend a local Care Home in a small group (approx 5) with the Support Worker. The small groups will take part in activities and conversations with older residents there. Each group of 5 will be involved with the Befriending for approximately 2 hours per week for up to 6 months. This opportunity is aimed at young people who could benefit from supervised volunteering, those who might not have the confidence to undertake volunteering alone, have additional support needs, or are considering progressing into a career in care. It is hoped that the befriending will create new communication skills, improve confidence and provide experiences that are attractive to future employers/education establishments.
This volunteering opportunity allows the individual to go with a group of other young people and the support worker to country parks throughout Midlothian and take part in conservation and environmental tasks there. Volunteers will receive training before becoming involved in a range of tasks such as: hedge cutting, path clearance, pond clearance, garden maintenance and planting. The young volunteers will work alongside rangers and have the chance to meet other conservation groups. This opportunity is ideal for young people who like to be outdoors and want to do something task orientated. The aim is to allow the young person to pick up practical skills, build confidence and the chance to meet other young people.
Supported Environmental Leaflet
If you want any more information you can contact Keith.
Transform is funded by:
