Girlguiding Edinburgh puts out urgent call for volunteers

An urgent call for volunteers has been issued as 10% of Girlguiding Edinburgh’s units are at risk of closure after summer break.

Girlguiding Edinburgh is facing a shortage of volunteer leaders, putting many units at risk of closure following the summer break.

The organisation, which provides invaluable opportunities for girls aged 4-18 to develop skills and confidence, is in urgent need of individuals willing to undergo leadership training and step up to lead local units.

“We’re facing a serious challenge as several of our existing leaders are planning to retire or relocate from Edinburgh,” said Kirsty Lewis, Lead Volunteer for Growth at Girlguiding Edinburgh. “While leadership turnover is a natural part of any organisation, the lack of new volunteers stepping up to undergo training is putting our units at risk. We’ve undertaken various forms of promotion, including free advertising and paid campaigns, but the response hasn’t been sufficient to meet our needs.”

Girlguiding offers comprehensive leadership training that not only benefits the girls involved but also serves as a valuable skill-building opportunity for individuals interested in pursuing professional careers outside of Guiding. The experience gained through leading a unit can enhance communication, teamwork, and leadership abilities, making it an attractive prospect for anyone looking to make a positive impact in their community while honing their own skills.

“We want to emphasise that becoming a volunteer leader is not just about volunteering; it’s about personal growth, skills development, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of young girls,” added Kirsty. “We invite anyone who is even remotely interested to reach out to us to arrange a visit to your local unit, and see firsthand how much fun and fulfilment this experience can bring.”

Prospective volunteers can contact Membership Coordinator, Maria Laskowska edincounty.recruitment@gmail.com for more information on how to get involved and contribute to the continuation of Girlguiding units in Edinburgh.