Volunteering For Mental Health Charities In Scotland

Why Volunteer For A Mental Health Charity In Scotland?

Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Unfortunately, many people don't always have the right level of support when they're going through a difficult experience, are under a lot of stress, or are suffering from a long-term mental health condition.

In Scotland, it's currently estimated that one-in-three people are affected by mental health issues every year. There are many charities across the country that are able to provide vital support and advice to those who may feel lost or alone.

Below are just a handful of the amazing mental health charities in Scotland that do life-changing work. 

Mental Health Charities In Scotland That Need Your Support

Penumbra

Penumbra is one of Scotland's leading mental health charities and is able to provide a broad range of practical and emotional support services to those who need them. It's dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of Scotland's residents by making sure they have a safe and secure home life, opportunities for meaningful employment or leisure activities, and a good support network.

Every year, Penumbra assists over 1,500 people across Scotland to improve or maintain their mental health. The charity largely relies on volunteers to deliver its services, from people to organise activities and outings, to those who can be a friendly ear to visitors at the charity's centres. 

The Richmond Fellowship

Another national charity that provides mental health advice and support is the Richmond Fellowship. It's able to support 2,500 people every year who may have a mental health condition, a disability or are in recovery from addiction.

The Richmond Fellowship works with 28 local authorities across Scotland to deliver flexible support programmes, including residential group homes, one-to-one mentoring and local community projects.

The organisation largely employs people with training and medical backgrounds to complete the majority of its work. Nevertheless, it's still possible to aid the Richmond Fellowship in Scotland by organising fundraising events or challenges, or simply spreading the word about its excellent services.

LGBT Health And Wellbeing

LGBT Health and Wellbeing is a unique charity that offers advice and promotes the wellbeing of members of the LGBT community across Scotland. It runs various programmes that aim to safeguard the mental health of people who feel stigmatised, isolated or discriminated because of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

In Glasgow and Edinburgh, you'll find many LGBT Health and Wellbeing projects that offer confidential and positive support to those that need it. This includes a helpline, counselling services and creative projects that are all free of charge.

Support In Mind Scotland

Launched over 40 years ago, Support in Mind Scotland is another wonderful charity that provides important support to those affected by mental health conditions. The charity runs around 20 different projects across the country that are designed to promote mental health, from one to one advice through to group activities to boost people's confidence. 

Volunteers are a vital part of Support in Mind's work. The charity often needs new people to assist with fundraising, to steward events or to run activity sessions and other programmes. Get in touch with the organisation via the Support in Mind website for current volunteering opportunities in your local area.

How Can You Help?

Support Scotland's incredible mental health charities by getting involved with volunteering or fundraising on their behalf. Take a look at our Local Causes directory, too, to see what other charitable opportunities are available in your local area. If you sign up to play People's Postcode Lottery, you can also help us help a range of deserving charities. 32% of the ticket price goes to supporting a wide range of deserving causes.