Planning Aid Scotland

What is Planning Aid Scotland?

Planning Aid Scotland (PAS) is a Scottish charity and social enterprise established in 1993 that helps individuals and communities engage with the planning system. The organisation provides free, impartial planning advice, training, and support for community-led planning. Backed by over 400 specialist volunteers and Scottish Government funding, PAS plays a vital role in making Scotland's planning system accessible and democratic.

PAS works at the intersection of community empowerment and urban planning, ensuring that the people most affected by planning decisions have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in the process. Their services range from one-to-one planning advice to large-scale community engagement programmes and professional training for planners and community organisations.

Where will I work?

Planning Aid Scotland is headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom. The organisation operates a hybrid working model, combining office-based work in Edinburgh with remote working flexibility. Given the nature of the work — which involves community engagement across Scotland — staff may also travel to communities, local authorities, and event venues throughout the country.

What is the team like?

With approximately 76 employees, Planning Aid Scotland is a medium-sized charity with teams covering planning advice, community engagement, training, policy, communications, and operations. The team is supported by a network of over 400 specialist volunteers who bring professional planning expertise to the organisation's community-facing work.

PAS attracts people who are passionate about community empowerment, social justice, and sustainable development. The culture is collaborative and mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on making complex planning processes accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Work-Life Balance

Planning Aid Scotland operates a 4-day working week at 32 hours with full pay. For a charity of 76 employees, adopting the 4-day week demonstrates a genuine commitment to staff wellbeing and progressive employment practices. The reduced working week helps the organisation attract and retain talented professionals who might otherwise be drawn to higher-paying private sector roles.

Perks and Benefits

• 4-day working week at full pay (32 hours)
• Hybrid working model
• Employer pension contributions
• Professional development opportunities
• Meaningful community-impact work
• Network of 400+ specialist volunteers
• Edinburgh city centre location