Employer Supported Volunteering (ESV) gives staff dedicated time to support causes and communities they care about, whether that’s through regular volunteering, one-off opportunities, or sharing skills with local groups. At Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface (CTSI), we support this by offering colleagues up to one hour (FTE) per week (or the equivalent across the year) to volunteer. It’s a flexible approach that recognises the value of giving back, while also supporting staff wellbeing, connection, and positive community impact.
That’s why we’re sharing stories from our staff — to showcase the real impact of Employer Supported Volunteering and inspire others to get involved.
In this Staff Volunteering Spotlight, we hear from Colin Melville, Team Leader (Communities and Partnerships), who has been volunteering with a community health walk in Comrie for more than six years.
The group is part of the Stride for Life programme, which encourages people to get active through friendly, accessible walks in their local communities. Alongside this, Colin also supports the junior section at Muckhart Golf Club, helping with competition administration.
Getting Involved
Colin first became involved with the health walks through a previous role where he coordinated the programme professionally. When he moved on from that job, one of the local groups asked if he would continue supporting them as a volunteer.
“I really enjoyed working with the health walk programme and saw first-hand the physical, social and mental benefits it brought to participants,” Colin explains. “When I left the role, the group asked if I would stay involved, and I was more than happy to.”
Once a month, Colin drives the group’s minibus so participants can explore different walking routes beyond their usual surroundings. As a qualified walk leader, he also helps support the group during the walk itself, making sure everyone feels safe and included.
“My main role is the driving,” he said, “but I also help make sure everyone enjoys the walk and more importantly the cuppa at the end.”
For Colin, the strength of the programme lies in its simplicity and inclusivity. The walks are open to most people and offer a regular opportunity to get outdoors, stay active and connect with others in the local community.
“The group really appreciates the chance to try different walks and visit new places,” he said. “It’s well known in the village and people enjoy joining because it’s welcoming and good fun.”
Making a Difference Locally
While volunteering benefits the wider community, Colin says he gains just as much from the experience.
“There’s always a bit of banter and I thoroughly enjoy it,” he said. “It’s great knowing that you’re helping people stay active and connected.”
Reflecting on his time volunteering, Colin says the biggest impact comes from the social connections the walks create.
“They help reduce loneliness and isolation and provide a regular routine for people who might be older or less active,” he explains.
Colin strongly encourages others to consider volunteering if they have the opportunity.
“It’s a great way to give something back and be there to help others,” he said. “I’ll definitely keep volunteering and I’ll probably still be involved when I retire.”
