Volunteering is a substantial economic contributor, injecting £4.6 billion into the UK economy every year.
- A report by Pro Bono Economics highlights that volunteering leads to productivity gains of over £4,551 per volunteer.
- These benefits extend beyond employed professionals, potentially aiding unemployed individuals in rejoining the workforce.
- Research indicates volunteering boosts skills and confidence, particularly among young adults.
- Policy recommendations urge expanded employee volunteering opportunities and formal recognition for volunteers.
Volunteering has become a pivotal factor in driving economic productivity within the United Kingdom, contributing £4.6 billion annually. According to a study by Pro Bono Economics (PBE), this productivity increase equates to approximately £4,551 per volunteer among those in professional and managerial roles.
The benefits of volunteering are not restricted to those currently employed. The report suggests that volunteering also holds significant potential for individuals not in employment by enhancing their chances of re-entering the workforce. Engaging in voluntary roles can serve as a stepping stone toward paid employment, as it helps individuals gain new skills and boost confidence.
Research results from Censuswide reveal that over half of jobseekers are eager to find employment but face barriers such as ill-health and lack of experience. Volunteering addresses these hurdles by offering skill-building opportunities and increasing confidence. Among those who have volunteered, 38% acquired new skills, and 32% noted an improvement in their confidence.
The unemployed, especially those aged 18 to 24, show a strong interest in supported volunteering roles, which include tailored training and mentoring. This demographic is particularly inclined to benefit from the structured support that volunteering offers, as it prepares them for future employment prospects.
A potential economic boost of £67.5 million could be realised if unemployed individuals from professional and managerial backgrounds volunteered at similar rates to their employed counterparts. Pro Bono Economics and Royal Voluntary Service advocate for policies that capitalise on the economic and societal benefits of volunteering.
Dr Jansev Jemal from Pro Bono Economics emphasises the importance of recognising the contributions of volunteers, whose efforts often remain unnoticed in official economic statistics despite their significant impact on productivity. Catherine Johnstone CBE of Royal Voluntary Service shares similar sentiments, acknowledging the role of volunteers in underpinning both societal and economic structures.
Matt Whittaker of Pro Bono Economics articulates the diverse benefits volunteering offers, such as skill development, network creation, and personal confidence boosts. These individual gains collectively translate into substantial economic advantages. Proactive measures to promote employee volunteering could therefore enhance productivity across various sectors.
An individual case highlights the pathway from voluntary work to employment: Geoffrey Albiston, who transitioned from volunteering to paid employment within the Royal Voluntary Service, attributes his success to the skills and confidence gained from his voluntary service. His story underscores the tangible personal and professional benefits of volunteering.
Volunteering significantly enhances economic productivity and personal development, urging expanded opportunities and recognition.
