Voluntary Groups Sutherland

Supporting Community Groups & Clubs Across Sutherland

Practical help, guidance and resources for community organisations across Sutherland.

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Lairg village, Sutherland
Little Loch Shin at Lairg by Trevor Littlewood.

Latest update

VGS Newsletter – May 2026

Our latest newsletter includes upcoming outreach surgeries and useful updates, events, opportunities and resources for community groups and the third sector. Click here to view the newsletter contents, or click the button below

Upcoming outreach surgeries

  • Kinlochbervie, CAB Office – Thursday 7 May, 10am – 3pm
  • Tongue, Kyle Centre – Monday 11 May, 10am to 3pm

Included in the Newsletter

  • Carers Scotland Highland Roadshow
  • Data protection for charities - Ask OSCR webinar with ICO
  • Go Golspie - Development Manager Vacancy
  • Highland Climate Hub - Members Connect
  • Highland Community Health & Social Care Working Group Survey
  • Highland Council - BeConnected Highland for funding
  • HTSI - Upcoming Events & Training
  • Inclusion Scotland Bulletin
  • Inclusion Scotland - Help shape accessible voting
  • Managing disputes in charities and the role of mediation
  • Money Advice Scotland - Events schedule for June 2026
  • Money Advice Scotland - Advice Sessions
  • SCVO - Funding Fundamentals Sessions
  • Volunteer Scotland Disclosure - Your Duty to Refer
Click me to view the newsletter files

Who We Are

Voluntary Groups Sutherland (VGS) is a third-sector support organisation. We are a delivery agent of Highland Third Sector Interface and are based in Lairg with outreach clinics across Sutherland. Our mission is to help the people of Sutherland improve their quality of life through voluntary action. In 2025 VGS had a group membership of 141.

What We Do

Our support reflects the diversity of groups, people and projects active across the area. We offer practical help, guidance, and resources so local groups can thrive and make a positive impact in their communities.

Our Services

Office Services

  • Small Societies Lotteries Licence (raffles and draws)
  • Scanning (A4/A3)
  • Comb binding (booklets & reports)
  • Laminating (A4/A3 + ID card size)
  • Stationery, sundries and office equipment ordering
  • Regular e-mail bulletins
  • Advertising on the VGS Facebook page
  • Meeting equipment (projector, flip chart & stand, screen)
  • Paper shredder for confidential disposal
  • Independent financial examination for OSCR compliance

Support & Advice

  • Dissemination of information
  • Co-ordination of training
  • Networking and partnership working
  • Support to emerging new groups
  • Governance, constitutions & charitable status
  • Advice on sources of funding
  • Fundraising support
  • Promoting volunteering
  • Basic recruitment practices
  • PVG disclosure guidance

Become a Member of Voluntary Groups Sutherland

1 year membership is £10 for groups and £5 for individuals. Members receive updates, guidance and opportunities to connect with others in the voluntary sector.

Join VGS Today