Volunteering in the UK: Where have all the volunteers gone?
Over the last year, several studies have put into sharp focus a huge problem affecting the charity sector across the UK: there are less and less people giving up their time to volunteer. While 4 million people volunteered during the pandemic, the return to normal work lives has seen a huge drop in volunteer numbers.
- The percentage of the UK population volunteering formally at least once a month has dropped from 23% (2019/20) to 16% (2021/22) (Community Life Survey 2021/22)
- In the last 5 years, those taking part in sponsored events has fallen by 48%; those helping run an activity has fallen by 52% (Time Well Spent, NCVO)
- Only 6–7% of 16–44 year olds and 5% of 45–54 year olds had volunteered in the past year (UK Giving Report, Charities Aid Foundation)
The factors at play
The cost of living crisis; digital distractions; and social isolation in modern societies are all significant factors here. But there is also a problem in terms of accessibility and flexibility. The way people actually find opportunities hasn’t evolved much from the 20th century. It’s an inflexible, antiquated process that doesn’t fit in with the way people live in the 21st century.
The digital solution
SoGood is aiming to create a digital national volunteering hub that looks to fix this problem, designed specifically for modern working patterns. It’ll be a resource that enables charities across the country to plug into a pool of motivated, willing and capable volunteers; and let the people eager to find volunteering positions do so in a way that reflects modern lifestyles.
This solution aligns with our drive to bring modern practices and technology to the charity sector — so charities can help more people and have a greater impact.
To find out more, head to our website.
