Volunteers in Aberdeen are contributing more than 150 hours each week to children’s charity AberNecessities - helping the organisation support over 8,000 children through referrals in the past year.
The charity, which provides essential items such as nappies, formula milk, clothing, beds and baby equipment, relies on volunteers to keep its service running.
From sorting donations to preparing and delivering items for families across the North-east, that contribution - equivalent to around four full-time roles - forms the backbone of its work.
At a time when national data suggests charitable giving and volunteering are shifting across the UK, the consistency of this local commitment stands out - and is something the charity says it does not take for granted.
Angela, who began volunteering in 2020 after taking early retirement from a 24-year career in oil and gas, had originally planned to spend her time travelling.
“I had just taken early retirement with plans to travel and see the world, but COVID put paid to those plans,” she said. “Volunteering gave me something meaningful to focus on.
“I love volunteering with AberNecessities, knowing I’m helping to make even a small difference for families in Aberdeen. It’s also the people - it’s such a lovely, supportive group to be part of.”
Susan, 66, a former NHS worker of more than 40 years, has volunteered weekly for the past three years.
“I wanted to give something back,” she said. “You might feel you’re only doing a small task - sorting donations or stocking shelves - but together it makes a real difference.
“I really enjoy hearing about the impact we make, and I value the people I volunteer with—we support each other, and that matters.”
Catherine, who spent more than 40 years working in the NHS, said her experience continues to shape her commitment to volunteering.
“I’ve seen first-hand how much need exists, even during times when people assume there isn’t any. I’ll never forget delivering a pillow to a young boy who had never had one - he just held onto it and kept asking if it was really his.
“That’s why I volunteer. It’s about being part of something that makes a real difference, alongside a group of people who genuinely care.”
Danielle Flecher-Horn, Founder of AberNecessities, said: “Our volunteers are generosity in action - people who show up week after week with purpose, personality and a huge amount of heart. They represent a city showing up for its own, and we’re incredibly proud of that. That support is what allows us to reach so many children. As demand grows, we’d love more people and organisations to join us in driving this forward.”
As the charity continues to respond to increasing need, it is encouraging anyone interested to get involved - whether by volunteering their time or supporting its work financially.
Those wishing to support AberNecessities - through donations, corporate partnerships or volunteering - can find out more at: https://www.abernecessities.co.uk/