An estimated 15 million people across the UK give up their time to volunteer each month.

A survey by Do-it Trust has revealed why so many of us, well, do it!

The survey, taken by more than 4,000 volunteers in the UK, revealed the biggest motivator is the desire to ‘give back’, with 65% of those surveyed saying they ‘want to do some good in the community’.

45% of people surveyed wanted to meet new people and friends (with some reporting they’d met their partner through volunteering). This is exactly what happened to Vanessa and Seth who met, fell in love, and got engaged while volunteering for Mercy Ships.

What Motivates People to Volunteer?

Volunteering led to love for Vanessa and Seth

Megan Simpkins, a cancer survivor, began volunteering for Dimbleby Cancer Care after they supported her through her battle with cancer. Megan is not alone in supporting an organisation she cares deeply about – 42% of respondents in the survey said that’s their motivation too.

What Motivates People to Volunteer?

The Do-it Trust survey results on why people volunteer

Jamie Ward-Smith, Chief Executive of Do-it Trust, commented on the survey results: “Particularly striking has been the frequent mentions from those we surveyed about how volunteering has improved their wellbeing and mental health, highlighting its enormous potential for social prescribing.

The survey also looked at why people don’t volunteer. Here’s what it found:

What motivates people to volunteer

When we spoke with Roger Hailwood, a volunteer for the National Memorial Arboretum, we asked him how he has the time to volunteer. His response will probably resonate with lots of other volunteers, “Even if you think you don’t have time, if you are passionate you’ll find the time – somehow, even if it might only be a small amount of time.

Interested in volunteering?

If you are interested in volunteering but only have a limited amount of time available there’s no need to worry – you can still make a massive impact. And if you are not sure where to find these short term, flexible volunteering positions, again there’s no need to worry. Do-it Trust are working on a speed volunteering app which will help you find the perfect role for you. In the meantime take a look at the do-it.org website to see if there are any positions that take your fancy.

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About Author

Nisha Kotecha is the Founder of Good News Shared. Having worked and volunteered for charities in the UK for over 10 years, Nisha is on a mission to highlight how amazing charities are.

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