​Public urged to use their skills to help boost volunteering in the Scottish Borders

Former Scottish international footballer Pat Nevin is urging people in the Borders to show off their assets as part of a new initiative to grow the number of volunteers in the area.

Nevin who lives in Duns, has teamed up with Volunteer Centre Borders (VCB) to launch their new campaign - Show Off Your Assets.

Gordon Brown, executive officer at VCB said: “The biggest asset the Borders has is its people but sometimes those assets can be hidden and that is why we want to explore and map out exactly how great an asset we have.

“Volunteers are the life-blood of our communities but if we want to make the Borders an even happier, healthier and more prosperous place, we need to increase the number of people who volunteer.

This campaign is about getting people to think differently about their own skills - Gordon Brown

“This campaign is about getting people to think differently about their own specific skills, interests and expertise - and that of their friends and families. By sharing this with us we can show them how this could be an asset for their community and that not only could they be helping others, they will be improving their own health and wellbeing.”

Pat Nevin said: “My job has always been around football but one of my other main passions is music and one of the things I most enjoy doing is DJing.

"I’m certainly not professional standard just an enthusiastic amateur but it is something I enjoy doing and it allows me to meet and chat to new people. The late nights can be tiring but they are always rewarding!

“I would ask Borderers to think about what their assets might be and then get in touch with Volunteer Centre Borders who will ensure they are put to good use.”

If you have a particular skill, interest or expertise and want to put it to good use by volunteering then get in touch with [email protected] or telephone 0845 602 3921.