Voluntary Groups Sutherland was established in 1973. A group of community minded people met to look at ways of improving the lifestyle and well-being of the local population, and also supporting local groups. The result was the setting up of the East Sutherland Council of Social Services (ESCSS). At that time the Management Committee was made up of representatives from all the areas of East Sutherland and a part-time Secretary, who worked from home.

From those small beginnings has emerged Voluntary Groups Sutherland (VGS); a Company Limited by Guarantee, with a board of Directors, three paid staff and outright owners of its own building (located in Main Street, Golspie).

Volunteering - We provide a volunteering matchmaking service within Sutherland and we work with our partners across Highland to support volunteers and volunteering. Visit Volunteer Scotland to find a volunteering opportunity or
contact us to register a volunteering opportunity with your organisation.

Community - Voluntary Groups Sutherland engages with the Community Planning Partnership process; helping shape services which make East and Central Sutherland a better place to live. The partnership brings together the public, private, voluntary sector and community to agree priorities on the planning and provision of services.

Social Enterprise - Social enterprises are third sector organisations that operate using a business model to generate sources of income. VGS provide support and advice on structures and governance to new and exisiting social enterprises and provide a signposting service to access information and support they need.

Third Sector - Voluntary Groups Sutherland supports the local Third Sector through local training events and one-to-one support on issues including governance, funding, planning and development. We keep local organisations up-to-date with funding, regulations & legislation, and Third Sector News.

Voluntary Groups Sutherland is also a delivery partner for the Highland Third Sector Interface.