Last week at The Welcoming, we celebrated the incredible volunteers who make our work possible, from English language support to friendship-building activities and strategic guidance. Volunteers’ Week 2025 allowed us to come together in gratitude and reflect on the enormous value volunteers bring to our community.
On Monday evening, we hosted a volunteer celebration event at our office, bringing together ESOL teachers, Befrienders, Friendship Group volunteers, Board members, and reception volunteers. It was a relaxed evening of food, conversation, and recognition, with Welcoming staff and volunteers connecting and reflecting on another busy year.
Our Chair of the Board, Keith Watson, shared a powerful message during the evening about the role of volunteering in building a more connected society. At a time of growing division and far-right rhetoric, he spoke about the importance of creating spaces of inclusion, care, and community, and how volunteers are the backbone of that movement. Their dedication not only supports New Scots on a practical level, but also sends a strong message of welcome and solidarity.
A story of creativity and community
Ivan first joined The Welcoming many years ago as a participant, looking to improve his English and build connections in a new country. After returning in 2022, he became a regular at our Conversation Café and Art Evenings, bringing his creative flair and deep understanding of the power of community.
When funding for our art sessions ended, Ivan volunteered to continue leading them, recognising the impact they had on other New Scots. Since April 2023, he has run monthly Art Evenings that provide a relaxed, inclusive space for self-expression, connection, and wellbeing.
Beyond his regular sessions, Ivan has also supported activities during Befriending Week, Refugee Week, and our weekly Conversation Café, always offering his warmth, wonderful sense of humour, creativity, and compassion. His contribution to our Friendship Programme has had a tangible and lasting impact.
Our volunteers: The stats
Over the past year, we’ve seen just how much can be achieved when people give their time and energy to support others. Here’s a look at the scale of their impact:
- 924 hours of English language support
- 462 ESOL classes delivered
- 38 one-to-one befriending matches
- 34 volunteers supporting community and friendship activities
- 10 Board Members guiding our mission
- 3,279 total hours of volunteer time over the past year
Each of these hours represents more than just a number! It’s a conversation, a connection, a door opened for someone trying to find their place in a new country.
Voices from The Welcoming
To close the week, we’ve been collecting reflections from our members and volunteers. Here’s what a few of them had to say about the power of volunteering at The Welcoming:
Teaching these classes is always an incredibly rich experience for me. I feel lucky to keep meeting wonderful people from all over the world and sharing this space with them. Every time brings surprises and joys.”
Sam, ESOL Teacher
A big thank you to the Welcoming from both my befriendee and me!! It’s been a great experience, and we hope to keep in contact moving forwards as friends.
Volunteer Befriender
Volunteering as a teacher at the Welcoming brings me three things that I truly value: purposeful and uplifting interaction with a wonderful group of resourceful, enthusiastic, (mostly) younger people from all over the world; a guaranteed weekly dose of fun and laughter; and an opportunity to keep my teaching skills alive and challenge my ageing brain!
Anne, ESOL Teacher
The volunteers who come to the Conversation Café are very good and friendly persons. They help us to understand the life in Scotland and overcome the difficulties we may face.
Conversation Cafe Participant
To every single volunteer who has given their time, knowledge, and kindness this year – thank you. You are as always, the backbone of The Welcoming.