Call for volunteers to get involved with Orkney 2025 Island Games

Thursday 18 January 2024

Visitors to the Orkney 2025 Island Games have the chance to join the army of volunteers that will be vital in making the event a success.

The event – which will take place from 12 to 18 July 2025 – will welcome over 2,000 competitors and officials from across the world to the Scottish islands.

Over 700 Games-time volunteers are needed and organisers are appealing to the public of Orkney and anyone visiting during the Games, who already has accommodation, to register to volunteer. 

At a recent event at Kirkwall’s Pickaquoy Centre hosted by Liam McArthur MSP, over 50 would-be volunteers found out more about the opportunities to get involved.  

Marshalling crowds and welcoming visitors, assisting individual sports and helping with transportation or IT, there are a myriad of roles to get involved with.

Liam McArthur said: “Having attended various Islands Games over recent years, I have seen first-hand the importance of the role played by volunteers.

“While the exploits of the athletes capture the headlines, it is undoubtedly the volunteers who help create the welcoming atmosphere that is key to making these the Friendly Games."

Pictured: At a recent event at Kirkwall’s Pickaquoy Centre, over 50 would-be volunteers found out more about the opportunities to get involved. 

“I am in no doubt that Orkney will deliver the best Games yet but this will require everyone to play their part. Excitement is already growing locally and with so many volunteering opportunities available, I would strongly encourage anyone interested to get involved. This is a chance to build memories and friendships for life.”

Bev Clubley, Head of Ceremonies, said: “It’s a once and a lifetime opportunity and I had to get involved and play a part in showing Orkney as the incredible place it is.

"The impact on the community will be massive and I want it to feel like a celebration of people. Volunteering is such an amazing way to get involved with the Games, it opens up other avenues other than sports and gives us creatives a chance to be part of it and make it a success.”

Games Director Kirsty Talbot added: “In July 2025 Orkney will welcome competitors and officials from 24 islands across the world so, as the largest event that the islands have ever hosted, the 2025 International Island Games is a brilliant opportunity to promote Orkney as the perfect host and Scotland as the perfect stage.  

“The opportunities for volunteering are endless and we feel there is something for everyone to get involved. We would like to encourage those who are able to lend a hand to volunteer and help to ensure that the Orkney 2025 International Island Games are a huge success.”

Volunteers must be over the age of 16 from 1 July 2025. 

You can find further information or register online HERE.