Small businesses in Scotland are being urged to discover the business benefits of volunteering, in a campaign launched as part of Year of the Volunteer 2005.
Employer supported volunteering is when employers encourage their staff to volunteer their time and skills to local causes and groups that interest them. And it¹s not just the community that reaps the benefits - volunteering is increasingly recognised by businesses as an alternative form of staff training and personal development.
learndirect scotland for business is working with Volunteer Development Scotland (VDS) and the Volunteer Centre Network in Scotland to encourage companies to get into volunteering.
Ailie Ferrari of learndirect scotland for business said: ³When employees help out on local projects they can improve their team-building, decision-making and communication skills, and gain a sense of personal fulfilment.
”For employers, it¹s a way to develop staff, boost morale and improve the company¹s image within the local community."
There are all sorts of volunteering opportunities, from removing graffiti in a public space to painting the day room in a local hospital.
Companies can also offer help in the workplace, for example by taking on design work for community groups or helping out with accounts.
”Businesses often spend a lot of money sending staff on teambuilding activities such as paint-balling or white water rafting," added Ailie. "We would urge them to consider exploring ways that they could achieve their aims but at the same time have a positive impact on the local community through volunteering opportunities."
Norrie Murray of VDS said: "This really could be a win-win-win situation. Firstly, employees could win a better life/work balance and possible improvements in their health through their involvement in volunteering.
”Secondly, employers could win as their staff develop skills that are essential for business growth such as communication, problem solving and learning to learn. And the broader community could win from the chance to work directly with the business community. It¹s a great agenda!"
For more information about volunteering opportunities for businesses, contact the learndirect scotland for business helpline on 08456 000 111.
Volunteer Development Scotlandworks strategically and in partnership to promote, support and develop volunteering in Scotland.
The Volunteer Centre Network in Scotland is made up of 42 locally-managed independent volunteer centres operating out of 60 offices.