After more than ten years at Voluntary Health Scotland, it’s time for me to say goodbye.
That sentence feels surreal to write. Because VHS hasn’t just been my job—it’s always felt so much more.
When I joined VHS back in 2015, my role was to develop a new programme of events and engagement for our members—starting from a blank slate. From that standing start, it’s been incredible to watch the programme grow into something vibrant and wide-reaching: a packed calendar of conferences, roundtables, online events and gatherings that connect people across Scotland and beyond. I’m especially proud to have launched the VHS Annual Conference back in 2015, the Scottish Community Link Worker Network Conference and Awards, and to have led the Cross Party Group on Health Inequalities as its Secretariat—just to name a few.
Since I wrapped up my last ever VHS event on May 14th at our Garden Lobby of the Scottish Parliament, I’ve been reflecting—not just on what we’ve done, but on who I’ve had the privilege to do it with.
The Sector That Never Stops Showing Up
Over the years, I’ve seen what the third sector is truly made of—and it’s incredible. We’re essential, not a luxury. We hold a unique kind of expertise—rooted in lived experience and deep community insight—that policymakers can’t afford to ignore and must act on if they’re serious about meaningful change. We are trusted in ways others often aren’t, and that trust should come with real power and responsibility. And at the centre of it all are people. Because that’s where meaningful change always begins.
Putting it simply, we need to:
- Listen to communities.
- Trust the third sector.
- Fund what matters.
- Keep people at the heart of everything.
That’s how we close the health inequalities gap.
What Three Words
At our recent Scottish Community Link Worker Network Conference, the title of the event was ‘Health, Hope and Healing’ and we used that as inspiration for “What Three Words” icebreaker exercise. To open the conference and to encourage attendees to reflect and share, we asked everyone to think of just three words to sum up their role. It is a challenge- can you sum up your role and organisation in just three?
If I had to sum up my role in three? 
Energetic. Rapid. Catalyst.
It’s been a role that’s constantly evolved—fast-paced and full of energy—where I’ve had the privilege to spark ideas that drive change and be inspired daily by the people and stories that surround this work. No two days are the same!
And VHS?
Ambitious. Empowering. Caring.
These are the words I’d use to sum up what it’s been like to be part of the incredible team at Voluntary Health Scotland.
Yes, we move at pace. Yes, we work across a national footprint. But what has always stood out to me — and what I believe truly sets VHS apart — is the way we lead with kindness. That kind of leadership feels rare, and it’s exactly what’s needed if we’re serious about closing the health inequalities gap. It’s not just about strategy or policy — it’s about people. It’s about care.
That caring culture runs through everything at VHS. It’s not something we shout about, but it’s always been there — steady, genuine, and powerful. From day one, I felt it. We take the time to get to know not just our members, but the people and organisations behind that membership. We build relationships. We stay curious. And, most importantly, we listen.
That’s something I’ve been especially proud of — being part of a team that doesn’t just collect voices but amplifies them in the places that matter. Whether in policy discussions, government consultations, or cross-sector partnerships, we’ve carried our members’ experiences with us and made sure they were heard where it counts.
Working with the VHS team and Board has been a joy — because it’s a group of people who are not only driven and talented, but deeply compassionate. Compassion and dignity should be embedded in all approaches for health.
I’m leaving with so many lessons but also lasting friendships.
Health, Hope and Healing
Through every event, policy discussion, and even coffee catch ups, I’ve seen a shared ambition for a fairer, healthier Scotland. But ambition alone won’t do it. We need action—and collaboration is the key.
VHS is perfectly placed as the connector, the convener, the amplifier. Our members know what works. Prevention is achievable, cost-effective, and urgent.
Saying Goodbye
To my colleagues, members, and partners: thank you. Thank you for your generosity, your dedication, and your vision for a fairer Scotland. VHS members have always been, thoughtful, committed courageous and determined—the kind that does change the world.
As I step into new adventures, I know VHS will continue to be a force for change. Please: support them, join them, and be part of the next chapter in Scotland’s journey to health creation.
I’ll be cheering you all on.
Lauren Blair is Events & Engagement Lead at VHS
