Since launching our FREE membership at The Gathering in February, Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) has seen our membership reach over 200+ organisations. That’s a huge 30% increase in members — and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Whether you’ve recently joined us or have been part of the VHS network for years, thanks for being part of our shared mission to tackle health inequalities and champion voluntary health organisations across Scotland.
For those who don’t know about our work and are thinking about joining, VHS is the national network and intermediary for voluntary health organisations in Scotland. Our members range from national charities to small, local grassroots organisations. Our members are united by a shared goal-to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities, especially those most affected by inequality.
VHS hosts many impactful events – our Annual Conferences are a day full of learning, inspiration and meaningful conversations. At past conferences we’ve had keynote speakers such as Lord Nigel Crisp author of ‘Health is Made at Home, Hospitals are for Repairs,’ who presented about ‘taking off our NHS spectacles and turn to communities to create health’. We’ve also heard from speakers such as Martyn Evans, Chair, Scottish Police Authority who urged the sector to seek out ‘unusual friends’ to ensure we engage with the widest range of stakeholders to reduce inequality and health inequalities. View our upcoming events here.
One of my favourite parts of the job is getting to know our members. This month VHS attended The Sorted Project ‘s 5-year strategy launch on their canal boat the Panacea, it was great to hear about their big plans for the future and continued support for people in recovery. This is just one example of the innovative, compassionate work happening across Scotland – our members are making a real difference.
The growth in our membership since February shows that more organisations are recognising the value of being part of VHS. But we’re not stopping here. We want to keep growing, connecting, and learning together. The more members we have, the louder our collective voice becomes — and the better equipped we are to challenge the root causes of health inequalities. From facilitating powerful policy conversations to amplifying the voices of our members, VHS plays a unique role in strengthening the sector.
So, if you’re part of a voluntary organisation working to improve health and wellbeing in Scotland — or even if you’re just curious about what we do — we’d love to hear from you. Membership is FREE, and you’ll be joining a vibrant, supportive network that’s working together to build a fairer, healthier Scotland. Join us now.
And if you’re already a member with news, ideas or events to share — get in touch here. VHS wants to shine a light on your brilliant work – let’s keep the momentum going.
Kellie Thomson is Communications & Membership Officer, VHS.
