My top tip for somebody considering volunteering is just do it. It's something you won't regret, you can do it as little or as long as you want to. It will improve your career and make you a better and more rounded planner. You'll get much more out of it than you ever have to put in.Gillian Dick is Manager of the Spatial Planning – Research & Development team within the Development Plan Group at Glasgow City Council. Gillian is immediate past Chair of the Partnership and Accreditation Panel, a member of the Education and Lifelong Learning Committee and RTPI Scotland Executive committee and sits on the Education for All oversight group and the Volunteer Advisory Group.
There's lots to gain from volunteering, both professional and personally. (Volunteer Survey, 2024)
- 65% of volunteers say that volunteering expands their professional network
- 58% say volunteering broadens their knowledge of wider planning issues
- 70% say volunteering introduces them to new people, places and areas
- 66% reported a positive impact on their personal development (eg. confidence)
Read more about what members have gained, both personally and professionally from volunteering in these blogs:
- RTPI | Charlotte Morphet: Broadening your perspective by volunteering with the RTPI
- RTPI | Benjamin Vickers: Sorry, Sir Bob
- RTPI | Gillian Dick: The perfect Planning mixtape
You can also attend an information session to find out more about volunteering at the RTPI, or let us know what you're interested in by completing this form.
