Community Supporter (Groups)

RNIB Scotland (SA)
VO104237

About RNIB

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is the UK’s leading charity supporting people affected by sight loss. RNIB Scotland works across the country to make sure blind and partially sighted people have the same opportunities, rights and choices as everyone else.

The Community Supporter (Groups) role sits at the heart of RNIB’s community and wellbeing work. By helping people come together—whether in person, by phone or online—you’ll be part of RNIB’s wider mission to reduce isolation, build peer networks, and empower people with sight loss to live full and independent lives. Volunteers are essential partners in this work, ensuring local groups are welcoming, inclusive, and supportive spaces.

Description:

Join our amazing volunteer team to make a real difference to people living with sight loss. As a Community Supporter (Groups) you’ll help bring people together, whether in local face-to-face groups or via regional telephone and online groups. By creating a welcoming environment, supporting conversations, and encouraging participation, you will help reduce social isolation, strengthen networks of support, and enable new friendships to flourish.

What you’ll be doing:

Meeting and greeting group members on arrival or welcoming them virtually.
Creating a warm, inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
Supporting and encouraging group conversations.
Assisting with group activities or discussions where appropriate.
Helping to promote independence and confidence among participants.

Commitment & Timing:

Around 4 hours per week, flexible to suit your availability and the needs of the group.
Groups run regularly across Scotland, either face-to-face in community venues or via telephone/online.
Minimum age: 18.

Location:

Opportunities available in multiple regions across Scotland, including Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Highlands and other local communities.
Remote/telephone groups are also available, so you can volunteer from home.

What you’ll gain from the role:

A rewarding opportunity to give something back and support people with sight loss.
A chance to be part of a strong, friendly volunteer community.
The satisfaction of seeing the difference you make in reducing isolation and building connections.
Opportunities to learn new skills, gain experience, and explore other roles within RNIB.

Support you’ll receive:

A full induction and training relevant to the role.
Ongoing support and regular catch-ups from your volunteer manager.
Peer support from other volunteers.
Out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed.
Updates and access to RNIB&rsquo;s wider volunteering opportunities.

Experience required

• An interest in group or community work.
• A sociable, friendly personality with good communication skills.
• Reliability and willingness to commit to supporting a group regularly.
• Commitment to equality and to creating inclusive environments for people with sight loss.

Travel details

Many Community Supporter roles can be done online or by telephone from home, with no travel required.
For face-to-face groups, accessible venues are used and reasonable travel expenses are reimbursed.