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Volunteer Development Scotland Ltd. (also known as Volunteer Scotland).
Charity registered in Scotland SC013740 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland, No. SC106743. Our registered Office is Jubilee House, Forthside Way, Stirling. FK8 1QZ

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Visit Companion Volunteer

FEL Scotland is a registered environmental charity focusing on helping communities become more sustainable, resilient and connected. They do this in different ways through dedicated projects which include Active Travel, Climate and Energy.
Within the energy team, they work with people and communities across Forth Valley and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National park, helping them to save energy, cut costs, and take action on climate change. FEL provide free, friendly energy advice through home visits, phone support, and online channels, helping people make simple changes that reduce their bills and improve their homes. Every household visited receives an easy, personalised energy-saving plan tailored to their needs.
In local communities, they deliver events and workshops that share practical ways to save energy. Through this work, they aim to empower individuals and communities to take control of their energy use, support one another, and create lasting positive change for a more sustainable future.
Visit Companion Volunteers play a supportive and reassuring role for householders by accompanying our trained Energy Advisors during home energy visits. Many residents can feel anxious, uncertain, or overwhelmed when someone comes into their home to discuss energy, damp, or heating concerns. Having a friendly, calm volunteer present helps us to build trust with householders, create a more relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and ensure that every visit feels respectful, safe, and person-centred.
During a home visit, companions assist our Energy team staff by gathering simple information, helping to manage equipment and noting observations. Visit Companion Volunteers help visits run smoothly and often notice concerns, barriers, or support needs that householders may not express directly. By feeding this information back to our Energy Team, they help ensure residents receive the right follow-up support or specialist advice, strengthening the overall impact of our service.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys meeting people, working as part of a team, and making a positive difference in their community through supporting others.
As a Visit Companion Volunteer, you will:
•Accompany our trained Energy Advisors to properties during home and community energy visits, providing a supportive presence and helping householders feel comfortable
•Assist advisors on-site, for example by gathering simple household information, noting observations, or helping manage equipment
•Support residents during visits, offering reassurance, conversation, and helping make the experience welcoming and accessible
•Act as an extra set of eyes and ears, ensuring safety, smooth running, and good communication during visits
•Provide feedback around any concerns or follow-up needs to the Energy Team

Experience required

This role will suit someone who:
•Communicates clearly, kindly, and with confidence
•Is comfortable spending time in people’s homes as part of a team
•Enjoys meeting new people and building rapport
•Is attentive, patient, and able to reassure householders
•Works well alongside others
•Is reliable and willing to support both home and community visits

Travel details

Forth Valley (can be local to volunteer).
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Travel expenses

Mileage rate: £0.60p Car share, £0.55p Car and Van, £0.35p Cycle (personal).
Rail - Standard Class Only, tickets must be retained..
Bus Travel - All claims reimbursable, tickets must be retained.

Support
Training details

Volunteers receive:
•Guidance on effective communication with householders
•The opportunity to shadow visits to gain confidence
•Introductory training on the home visit process, safety, and boundaries
•Ongoing support from the Energy Team
•Introductory and bespoke ‘Stay Warm, Stay Well’ training through Energy Action Scotland

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18

Availability
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening
Frequency & commitment
2 hours per month - flexible to suit volunteers.

Volunteers (aged 18-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
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