At a Glance
- Tasks: Bring people together through fun social game nights and create a welcoming community.
- Company: Neighbours to Friends CIC, dedicated to reducing loneliness in adults aged 18+.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, meet new people, and make a positive impact in your community.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with support and guidance provided throughout your volunteering journey.
- Why this job: Be a local connector and help others build friendships while having fun.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a friendly attitude and willingness to help.
Neighbours to Friends CIC is looking for friendly volunteers across Scotland who would like to help bring people together in their own town or local community. We run friendly in-person social game nights for adults aged 18+. The aim is not just to play a game – it is to help adults meet new people, feel welcome, make friends, and reduce loneliness through regular real‑life social connection. This volunteer role may suit someone who wants to become a positive local connector in their community. You do not need previous experience. We can explain the format, provide guidance and support you step by step.
- Help find a suitable local venue
- Welcome new people
- Help adults feel comfortable if they come alone
- Support or host friendly social game nights
- Share the project locally
- Help with social media or online communication
- Invite local people to take part
- Help build a small local group over time
Some volunteers may want to help with hosting, promotion, social media, finding a venue or welcoming people. We can discuss what suits you. This is an unpaid volunteer role, not paid employment. Reasonable pre‑agreed out‑of‑pocket expenses may be reimbursed where possible. Before anyone starts, we will have a short conversation to make sure the role is suitable, safe and aligned with the purpose of the project. This role does not involve personal care, counselling, therapy or formal advice work.
About Neighbours to Friends CIC: Neighbours to Friends CIC is a Scottish Community Interest Company working to reduce loneliness among adults aged 18+ by creating regular in‑person opportunities for social connection. Our social game nights give people a simple and friendly way to meet others, talk, laugh, return again and build local connections over time.
Experience required: No previous experience is required. We are looking for people who are friendly, reliable, respectful and interested in helping adults feel welcome and connected. Helpful skills may include good communication, confidence speaking to people, social media, local promotion, event support, finding local venues, or helping organise small groups. Volunteers should be willing to follow simple guidance and work within the values of Neighbours to Friends CIC. Most planning and communication can happen online. If a volunteer helps start a local group, the in‑person activity would normally take place in their own town or local area.
Travel expenses: Expenses paid: Yes, only for reasonable pre‑agreed out‑of‑pocket expenses where approved in advance.
Support: We will provide guidance and support before anyone starts. This may include an introductory conversation, explanation of the project, basic host guidance, event format, promotion guidance, support with finding a suitable venue, and ongoing contact with Neighbours to Friends CIC. Volunteers will not be expected to know everything at the beginning.
Restrictions: Minimum age: 18. Volunteers must be aged 18+. This role involves supporting adult social events and representing Neighbours to Friends CIC locally. All volunteers will have a short conversation with us first and must follow basic conduct and safety guidance.
Availability: Flexible. This can start with a small commitment, such as a few hours per month. Volunteers who want to help start a local group may later support regular social game nights, depending on their availability and local demand. We do not expect volunteers to take everything on themselves. We will discuss what level of involvement is realistic for each person. Volunteers (aged 18-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Volunteer Host / Local Community Starter - Scotland employer: Voluntary Sector Gateway
Neighbours to Friends CIC is an exceptional community-focused organisation dedicated to reducing loneliness among adults in Scotland through engaging social game nights. As a volunteer, you will be part of a supportive and friendly environment that values connection and inclusivity, with opportunities for personal growth and community impact. With flexible commitments and comprehensive guidance provided, this role offers a meaningful way to make a difference in your local area while meeting new people and fostering friendships.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Host / Local Community Starter - Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know your local community! Attend events, visit local venues, and chat with people. The more you immerse yourself, the easier it’ll be to connect others and create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Use platforms like Facebook or Instagram to promote your game nights and invite locals. It’s a great way to reach out and get people excited about joining in.
✨Tip Number 3
Be approachable and friendly! When new folks arrive, make sure to greet them warmly and introduce them to others. A simple smile can go a long way in making someone feel at home.
✨Tip Number 4
Remember, we’re all in this together! Don’t hesitate to ask for help or guidance from us at Neighbours to Friends CIC. We’re here to support you every step of the way in creating those vital connections.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Host / Local Community Starter - Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your interests and what makes you tick.
Show Your Passion:Express why you’re excited about becoming a Volunteer Host. Whether it’s your love for socialising or helping others, we want to see your enthusiasm for building connections in your community.
Keep It Simple:Don’t overthink your application! Just answer the questions clearly and concisely. We appreciate straightforwardness, so stick to the point and make it easy for us to understand your motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get back to you quickly. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Voluntary Sector Gateway
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to understand the mission of Neighbours to Friends CIC. Familiarise yourself with their goal of reducing loneliness through social connections. This will help you align your answers with their values and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Show Your Friendly Side
As a Volunteer Host, being friendly and approachable is key. During the interview, let your personality shine through! Share examples of how you've made others feel welcome in the past, even if it's just in casual settings. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Ideas
Think about how you can contribute to the community and bring people together. Prepare a few ideas on local venues or activities that could work for social game nights. This shows initiative and that you're already thinking about how to engage with the community.
✨Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the interview. Inquire about the support you'll receive, the types of games played, or how they promote events. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
