Volunteering in the Arts

Whether your interest is in music, drama, crafts or art itself there are many things that you can do to help out at a local, or even national, level.

Here is an idea of some general types of opportunity that are available through volunteering in the arts:

• Being a teacher or assistant in an arts, crafts, music or drama class/workshop

• Becoming involved in hospital radio DJing.
• Organising events or local groups for people to attend/participate in – a drama group, an art project or even a concert for local musicians.
• Be a support worker who helps people with disabilities participate in arts, crafts, drama or music.

If you are a talented actor, artist or musician then opportunities will also exist for you to utilise your skills directly be it costume design, performing music or acting in a community production. 

Whatever contribution you are able to make could play a massive part in allowing a group or organisation, that might receive only limited or no funding, to continue to run so many people throughout the community will benefit from it.

Getting involved

If you’re looking for a way into volunteering in the arts sector then a good way to start is to talk to the people at your local Volunteer Centre. You can arrange to make an appointment with one of their advisors who will be able to talk to you about the different kinds of opportunity that’s available. 

You can discuss with them what you’re looking to get out of the placement and they will be able to help you find something that matches your particular skills and abilities.

Starting your own project or group

Starting up your own arts based group can seem daunting. You’ll need to find a place to host it and you might have other overheads to pay for like materials. 

If you’re interested in starting up a group or project then there are resources to help you. A Young Scot Arts Action Fund can provide funding of up to £750 for group applications. For more information and advice take a look at the Arts section of this website or simply download a copy of the application form.

Some things you might want to think about when starting up your own group are:

What do you want to do?

• Is it a serious activity or is the focus simply on fun and participation?

• Are you catering for a particular group of people or is it going to be open to everyone?
• Is there a convenient facility locally that you can use?
• Are you going to charge people to take part?

If you plan for some of these factors then you can hopefully increase your chances of setting up a lasting arts project.