Victim Support Scotland (VSS), Scotland’s leading charity supporting people affected by crime, is calling for volunteers in communities throughout Argyll, and in particular in Campbeltown.
VSS volunteers help people affected by crime to navigate the criminal justice system as well as providing emotional and practical support.
Victim Support Scotland volunteers play a key role in making sure the voices of victims are heard and understood.
Volunteering with VSS offers three unique benefits:
•Accredited training in the criminal justice system
•Supporting people in your own community when they need it most
•Opportunity to enhance and develop your skills
Volunteering with VSS in Campbeltown is a unique opportunity which comes with significant training opportunities which can assist in progressing within career paths.
Volunteers can access accredited training which covers topics on the criminal justice system, trauma informed practice, safeguarding and more.
Victim Support Scotland is currently looking for volunteers in Campbeltown to help support vulnerable witnesses at Campbeltown Sheriff Court.
Demand for practical and emotional support continues to grow, and so does the number of volunteers required to provide this vital service to people affected by crime.
Volunteers throughout Argyll make a significant difference to people who go to VSS for help, providing dedicated and often long-term support.
The organisation was also recently reaccredited by Investing in Volunteers, the UK quality standard for good practice in volunteer management.
Miren Ochoa Sagues, head of service delivery for Victim Support Scotland, said: “Volunteering at Victim Support Scotland throughout Argyll is a unique opportunity.
“We depend on our volunteers to support people affected by crime when they most need it, empowering them to regain control and move forward with their lives.
“As well as helping others, volunteers gain benefits such as learning new support skills, experience of working within the criminal justice sector, and accessing a wide range of training opportunities.
“No experience in the criminal justice sector is necessary to become a VSS volunteer.
“I am acutely aware of the unique opportunity that comes with volunteering in Campbeltown.
“I encourage people in the area who may be looking for challenging yet rewarding experience with valuable training and development opportunities to consider joining us as a volunteer.”
Jane, who is an existing Victim Support Scotland volunteer, said: “I have been a volunteer with Victim Support Scotland for a number of years, helping people affected by crime through emotional and practical support.
“The role of volunteer with VSS is interesting, dynamic and rewarding, with many opportunities to learn new skills and upskill in different training modules.
“I have never left a volunteer session without feeling like I have made a difference.
“The people supported and staff are so appreciative of my time, and it is a privilege to have the opportunity to support people who have been deeply affected by what has happened to them and help them to move forward.”
To get in touch with VSS about volunteering opportunities in Campbeltown, go to victimsupport.scot/volunteertoday or phone 0333 034 1078.