VDS’ third annual digest of statistics on volunteering in Scotland found that 38% of adults volunteer on a formal basis, while 81% volunteer informally. While this represented a marginal drop from the 2004 volunteering numbers, the amount of time being donated has increased.

A statement from VDS said: “People are giving more time so the impact on Scotland is increasing – from the increased economic value of volunteering to the many ways volunteering touches the lives of Scottish people. The challenge is for volunteer-involving organisations to ensure that volunteers are well looked after, and that the demands made on volunteers are commensurate with the amount of time that they are able to give.”

To see the full findings of the volunteering digest, visit www.vds.org.uk