Voluntary Groups Sutherland

Supporting Community Groups & Clubs Across Sutherland

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

Become a Member Contact Us
Lairg village, Sutherland
Little Loch Shin at Lairg by Trevor Littlewood.

Latest update

VGS Newsletter – 26th August 2026

Save the Date:- VGS AGM 29th October, 7pm online.

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

  • Tongue, Kyle Centre – Monday 31 August, 10am to 3pm
  • Lochinver Village Hall - Thursday 3 September, 11am to 3pm

Included in the Newsletter

  • Crofting Commission elections in March 2027
  • Easy Funding - Bulletin - Funding payouts
  • Funding Finder July 2026
  • Funding from Tain Tesco Fruit & Veg Grants
  • Highland Council - Community Briefing 21.08.26
  • HTSI - New opportunities and opportunities expiring within 1 week
  • HTSI - Volunteer Academy - Events and Training - Special Bulletin/li>
  • Inclusion Scotland - Inclusion Matters August 2026
  • Scottish Rural Action News
  • SCVO - People, HR & Learning update
  • TYKES fundraiser - Saturday 24 October
  • VGS Training Session - Bettyhill - Good Governance - 28 September 2026
  • Volunteer Scotland - Stakeholder Survey - There is still time to have your say
  • Youth Highland - News Drop August 2026
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