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Skye and Raasay Volunteer Bank - Feasibility Study

Skye and Lochalsh Council for Voluntary Organisations No comments

Proposal code: THC-2026-06-161

Feasibility Study for a pilot project that will create a coordinated pool of volunteers who can offer practical skills and support to community groups across Skye and Raasay

Estimated Cost

£6,500

What do you want to do? We are seeking funding to deliver a 6-month research and development phase for the proposed Skye and Raasay Volunteer Bank. This phase will test the feasibility of creating a coordinated system to match local volunteers’ skills with the needs of community organisations across Skye and Raasay.

The funded activities will include:

  • Appointing a part-time project lead (10 hours per week)
  • Engaging with community groups, partners, and stakeholders to assess demand and refine the model
  • Mapping existing volunteer skills, gaps, and opportunities
  • Designing and testing a simple volunteer matching system
  • Exploring links to employability pathways and mentoring
  • Developing a delivery model, governance framework, and sustainability plan
  • Producing a feasibility report and business case for a pilot

Why is your project important for your community?

Skye and Raasay have a strong third sector, but many groups face increasing challenges around capacity, skills gaps, and volunteer recruitment, particularly in rural and remote areas. At the same time, many individuals want to contribute but lack clear, accessible pathways.

This project will:

  • Improve access to practical skills and support for community organisations
  • Strengthen community resilience and sustainability
  • Create flexible opportunities for people to volunteer and build skills
  • Support individuals facing barriers to move towards employment or training

The project aligns with Area Place Plan priorities, including:

  • Strengthening community infrastructure and capacity
  • Supporting inclusion and reducing isolation
  • Improving access to opportunities in rural areas
  • Developing sustainable, community-led solutions

What positive impact will your project have? 

This phase will lay the groundwork for long-term impact. Outcomes will include:

  • An evidence-based understanding of local need and demand
  • Increased collaboration between groups, partners, and residents
  • A tested Volunteer Bank model
  • A pipeline of volunteers and organisations ready for a pilot
  • A clear business case and funding plan

Longer-term impact will include:

  • Increased capacity of community organisations
  • Improved access to meaningful volunteering
  • Enhanced confidence and employability
  • Stronger, more connected communities

 

What key milestones have you achieved so far and what are the next steps?

Achieved so far:

  • Initial concept and outline developed
  • Early discussions with partners
  • Alignment with local priorities and strategic work

Next steps:

  • Community engagement to evidence demand
  • Development of a full project plan and feasibility study
  • Design of delivery processes (recruitment, matching, support)
  • Exploration of governance, safeguarding, and operations
  • Identification of funding for pilot delivery
  • Submission of further funding applications

What is your anticipated start and end date?

The development phase will begin September 27 (subject to funding) and run for 6 months, completing February 27.

Funding for pilot would then be sought with delivery commencing early 2027 for two years.

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