National Organisations
There are a number of key national organisations that provide a range of services and information to community and voluntary organisations in general or which serve specific interests and types of organisation.
We list some of the key ones here.
A Scottish Government agency. Its aim is to work with others to ensure decent housing and strong communities throughout Scotland. They are a good source of information about regeneration and partnership working and they are also a source of funds for community organisations. To learn more visit their website
Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO)
The main national organisation serving voluntary and community organisations.
This is Scotland's portal to the voluntary sector which is linked to the SCVO site and provides a wealth of information and support for the voluntary sector that is just as relevant for community organisations.
Association of Scottish Community Councils
Provides a national forum for Community Councils in Scotland and is a good source of information on what other Community Councils are doing; how other local authorities work with their Community Councils; and what the national context is for developing local democracy.
Development Trust Association Scotland
A membership organisation representing, promoting and supporting Community Development Trusts throughout Scotland. Tel: 0131 220 2456.
A network for those involved in Social Enterprise. They produce an electronic newsletter which gives weekly updates on policy, practice and funding. Tel: 0131 220 4104
Sportscotland are a national body providing a range of advice to local sports clubs.
Youth Scotland is the network of youth clubs and groups in Scotland. They are the largest non-uniformed voluntary youth organisation in Scotland.
The Voluntary Issues Unit (VIU)
The lead division in the Scottish Government for taking forward the partnership between the Scottish Government and the voluntary sector
Volunteer Development Scotland
The national body for volunteer development and advice in Scotland. Tel: 01786-479593
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Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Organisations
Offers free training courses for members of BME voluntary and community organisations. For more information contact CEMVO at 020 8432 0307
Scotland's leading disability organisation. Tel: 0131 313 5510