Make Your Mark, chaired by Volunteer Scotland, will allow members of the public to try a number of new opportunities.

A campaign to increase the number and diversity of heritage volunteers in Scotland has launched a new website with volunteering opportunities at museums, galleries, archives, historic sites, parks and zoos across Scotland. 

In the wake of COVID-19 and a prolonged period of social isolation, volunteering is more important than ever as a way to meet people, develop skills and have exciting and new experiences. 

Through Make Your Mark, people can try out a variety of tasks, including helping out at events, welcoming visitors, tour guiding, creating digital and social media content, maintaining library records, gardening, supporting ranger services and more. 

Alan Stevenson, chief executive officer of Volunteer Scotland, said: “Volunteers ensure that our heritage sites continue to be enjoyed by all. 

“Volunteering is not only good for your physical and mental health but it's a great way to get involved with your local historic, cultural and nature sites, to meet new people and make new friends.”

In addition to promoting volunteering opportunities, Make Your Mark supports volunteer-involving heritage organisations in Scotland by promoting best practices of volunteer management, facilitating a peer-to-peer volunteer organisers network, hosting events about inclusive volunteering and celebrating volunteers’ accomplishments. 

Make Your Mark is part of Scotland’s strategy for the built environment Our Place in Time, and is overseen by a working group composed of major stakeholders in Scotland’s voluntary and heritage sectors.

The campaign is chaired by Volunteer Scotland and vice chaired by Historic Environment Scotland.

Mr Stevenson added: “Volunteering is fun and I’d encourage anyone to give it a go!” 

The range of volunteer roles on offer can be found here.