Nearly 2000 volunteers thanked for devotion to much loved charity
The National Trust for Scotland is extending a huge thank you to the nearly 2000 people who volunteer for the conservation charity.
Ranging from school pupils to people in their eighties and even nineties, volunteers include guides and gardeners, seabird rangers, musicians and needleworkers.
Volunteers include its President, the journalist and broadcaster Jackie Bird along with its new ambassador, the marine expert and explorer, Cal Major.
National Trust for Scotland volunteers are based across the country, with more than 800 based in and around Edinburgh and Central Scotland.
Edinburgh based NTS volunteer, George Laing.
There are almost 250 volunteers in the Highlands & Islands with around 280 in the North East and some 570 in the South & West of Scotland. Some of these have been volunteering with the Trust for decades.
As Scotland’s largest conservation charity, the Trust explains its role in nurturing the rich and important landscapes, islands, wildlife, mountain paths, castles, collections and other national treasures in its care.
It goes on to say that none of its work would be possible without the help, and commitment, of those dedicated volunteers.
‘The contribution of our fantastic volunteers to the work of our charity is both invaluable and inspiring,’ explains Jacky Cox, Consultant for Volunteering at the National Trust for Scotland.
Unwavering dedication and support
‘Their unwavering dedication to support our properties and collections come rain or shine is how we can continue our work to champion Scotland’s remarkable heritage, and we are truly grateful for their continued commitment.’
‘Volunteers are incredibly important for us to be able to carry out our work and deliver our vision of nature, beauty and heritage for everyone, and we are always pleased when new volunteers join and become part of the Trust team.’
‘Anyone who is interested in joining us should look on our website or contact their nearby properties to see what volunteering opportunities we currently have available.’
NTS volunteer Mel Newbould.
As well as celebrating current volunteers, the National Trust for Scotland has volunteer opportunities available, whether people are looking to learn new skills, get involved in something new, be more physically active or just fancy giving volunteering a go.
With a vibrant volunteering community, the National Trust for Scotland has volunteering opportunities for people of all ages who are keen to get involved, join the team and help support the Trust’s work.
From history to horticulture, volunteers help carry out essential duties, including: around 60 flower arrangers, 23 volunteers working within collections care with almost 20 archaeologists and 13 people focused on work centred around period clothing.
Getting involved in heritage
Abigail Watson, who currently in her final year studying History at the University of Glasgow, is a Collections’ Care Volunteer at the Tenement House.
As part of her role, Abigail was tasked with going through the textile archives to create a talk for visitors.
Using one of the patterns, Abigail re-created a bustle jacket to be on display for visitors to be able to touch and feel during talks.
Glasgow History student and NTS volunteer, Abigail Watson.
‘I love history – it’s what I study, but I wanted to see if there was a way in which I could be part of it,’ says Abigail.
‘As a family, we’ve always been members of the Trust, so I was very aware of the places the Trust cares for and the work it does.’
‘I really wanted to get involved with heritage, and I really enjoy talking to and learning from the other volunteers at the property – they’re all so knowledgeable and passionate about this special place.’
‘I love researching the family that used to live at the Tenement House and finding out more about them.’
‘I find myself becoming so absorbed in this research that I really feel as though I’m connected to them in some way. It’s a real privilege to be able to share their stories.’
