VSGWL

03/09/2026

Save the Date – Social Enterprise Conference 2027

Join us for a day of connection, learning and inspiration at our Social Enterprise Conference, bringing together social enterprises, enterprising charities and community groups from across the sector.

📅 Wednesday 12th May 2027
🕤 9.30am – 3.30pm
📍 Howden Park Centre

The conference will be opened by Tom Arthur, Minister for Business and Fair Work, followed by a packed programme featuring keynote speakers, practical workshops and a marketplace.

Whether you're already running a social enterprise or looking to develop a more enterprising approach, this will be a great opportunity to connect, learn and inspire.

Save the date – more details and booking information coming soon!

01/09/2026

The latest Su***de Prevention Scotland newsletter is now available, with updates, resources and examples of su***de prevention work happening across Scotland.

This edition includes new resources on tackling su***de-related stigma, updates on work with children and young people, the Enabling Conversations Toolkit, World Su***de Prevention Day resources and examples of local action.

The newsletter is a useful read for organisations and individuals involved in mental health, wellbeing and su***de prevention.

Read the latest newsletter: https://www.voluntarysectorgateway.org/su***de-prevention-scotland-august-2026-newsletter/

01/09/2026

📣 Our 2026 Stakeholder Survey is now open!

We want to hear from our partners and stakeholders about how well The Gateway is supporting the third sector across West Lothian — and where we can improve.

Your feedback will help shape our future priorities, services and support, while making sure our work continues to reflect the needs of local organisations and communities.

It only takes a few minutes to complete, and we really value your honest feedback.

Complete the survey:
https://salesforce.123formbuilder.com/form-6975103/vsgwl-survey-2026

🗓Closing: 12pm, Monday 21 September 2026

Thank you for helping us continue to strengthen West Lothian’s third sector.

31/08/2026

Are you a good listener?

Could you support a young person to get out and about more?

Would you like to gain experience supporting children and young people?

Do you have around 3 hours per week or fortnight available?

Training provided and session expenses covered.

For more information and to apply, email [email protected] or click
the link in the comments below:

31/08/2026

Supporting Unpaid Carers in the Workplace

Join us, Carers Scotland and Carers of West Lothian for a free event looking at how employers can better recognise and support unpaid carers in the workplace.

📅 Monday 21st September
⏰ 3pm–5pm
📍 The Gateway, 20–22 King Street, Bathgate

We’ll hear about the experiences of working carers, the support available locally and some practical steps employers can take to create a more supportive workplace.

You’ll also find out more about the Carer Positive Award, which recognises employers who support staff balancing work with unpaid caring responsibilities.

There will be time for questions, networking and a cuppa too. ☕

The event is free, but advance booking is required.

🎟️ Book your place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../supporting-unpaid-carers...

31/08/2026

📢 We’re hiring – Development Officer (Employability)

We’re looking for a Development Officer (Employability) to join VSGWL on a part-time maternity cover contract.

The role will focus on supporting people across West Lothian towards employment, volunteering and other positive destinations. You’ll work with third sector organisations, employers and training providers to help create opportunities for people who may face barriers to employment.

21 hours per week
£33,011 pro rata (£19,806 per annum)
Maternity cover – minimum 6 months

Closing date: 10am, Monday 7th September
Interviews: Monday 21 September

Interested? Find out more and apply online: https://www.voluntarysectorgateway.org/development.../

For an informal chat about the role, contact Alan McCloskey at [email protected].

Part-time – 21 hours per week Salary: £33,011 pro rata (£19,806 per annum for 21 hours per week) Fixed-term maternity cover – expected to be a minimum of six months…

28/08/2026

We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Morag Goulden, who we had the privilege of recognising as our Assisted Volunteer of the Year at the West Lothian Volunteer Awards 2026.

Morag was a remarkable volunteer whose kindness, generosity and commitment to helping others made a lasting impact. Through her volunteering and fundraising, she gave so much to Military Museum Scotland SCIO and many other charities and causes over the years.

We were delighted to celebrate Morag and her contribution at this year’s Volunteer Awards, and this photograph is a lovely reminder of a very special and well-deserved moment.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Morag’s family, friends and everyone at Military Museum Scotland at this very sad time.

Morag’s contribution to her community will not be forgotten. ❤️

27/08/2026

Our Stakeholder Survey is coming soon!

We want to hear from you!

Our upcoming Stakeholder Survey is your chance to share your feedback on The Gateway – what we're doing well, where we could improve and how we can continue to best support West Lothian's third sector and social enterprise community.

Your views really do matter and will help us shape our work and services going forward.

👀 Keep an eye on our channels – the survey will be launching soon!

27/08/2026

🌟 Volunteer with OPAL! 🌟

Would you like to make a difference in your local community, meet new people and be part of something positive?

OPAL is looking for volunteers!

Whether you have a little time or can commit more regularly, we’d love to hear from you. There are lots of ways to get involved, and you don’t need any special experience — just enthusiasm and a willingness to help.

If you’re interested in volunteering with OPAL, get in touch with us today or send us a message to find out more.

Come and be part of the OPAL team!

27/08/2026

Supporting Unpaid Carers in the Workplace

Join us, Carers Scotland and Carers of West Lothian for a free event looking at how employers can better recognise and support unpaid carers in the workplace.

📅 Monday 21st September
⏰ 3pm–5pm
📍 The Gateway, 20–22 King Street, Bathgate

We’ll hear about the experiences of working carers, the support available locally and some practical steps employers can take to create a more supportive workplace.

You’ll also find out more about the Carer Positive Award, which recognises employers who support staff balancing work with unpaid caring responsibilities.

There will be time for questions, networking and a cuppa too. ☕

The event is free, but advance booking is required.

🎟️ Book your place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/supporting-unpaid-carers-in-the-workplace-carer-positive-event-tickets-1997830119668