The Enduring Spirit of Giving: UK Volunteering in 2025

Volunteering stands as a cornerstone of the United Kingdom's social structure, contributing significantly to the well-being of communities and the functioning of various sectors. The dedication of individuals who offer their time and skills without expectation of monetary reward underpins countless initiatives, from local community groups to national charities. This spirit of giving not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility and strengthens the bonds that hold society together. As the year 2025 unfolds, the landscape of volunteering continues to evolve, shaped by a confluence of societal shifts, economic conditions, and the ever-increasing influence of technology. This blog post delves into the current state of volunteering in the UK, exploring its key facets to provide a comprehensive overview of this vital aspect of civic engagement.

The Numbers Speak: Unpacking the 2025 Volunteering Landscape

Understanding the scale and nature of volunteering requires a close look at participation rates and the ways in which individuals contribute their time. While precise figures for 2025 are still emerging, recent data offers valuable insights into the prevailing trends. In 2021/22, it was estimated that around 14.2 million people across the UK engaged in formal volunteering at least once during the year, with approximately 8.3 million individuals volunteering formally on a monthly basis ¹. However, the Community Life Survey for 2023-24 indicates that formal volunteering rates in England have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. During this period, 16% of adults reported volunteering formally every month, and 28% volunteered formally at least once a year ². This suggests that despite the easing of pandemic restrictions, formal volunteering has plateaued at a level below that observed before 2020. This sustained lower rate implies that factors beyond the immediate impact of the pandemic, such as time constraints and economic pressures, are significantly influencing participation.

Alongside traditional forms of volunteering, the concept of 'micro-volunteering' has gained considerable traction. This approach allows individuals to contribute to causes in short, often ad-hoc bursts, fitting volunteering around other commitments ³. Micro-volunteering is characterized by its short duration, ease of access, immediacy, convenience, low level of formality, potential for one-off engagement, discrete nature of the activity, and flexible location, often taking place online ⁴. The rise of this trend indicates a shift in how people prefer to engage with volunteering, prioritizing flexibility and shorter commitments. This adaptation is likely a response to the increasing prevalence of two-income households and busier schedules, which can make regular, long-term volunteering difficult ³. While individual micro-volunteering contributions may be shorter in duration, the potential for a larger number of people to participate could collectively lead to a significant overall contribution of time.

To illustrate the recent trends in volunteering, the following table compares formal and informal volunteering rates in England:

Note: Data for informal volunteering in 2019/20 and 2020/21 is not readily available in the provided snippets.

This data highlights the decline in formal volunteering since the pre-pandemic period and the relative stability of informal volunteering, where individuals give unpaid help to those outside their family. The sustained lower rates of formal volunteering, even after the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, underscore the need to consider broader societal and economic factors influencing people's ability and willingness to commit to formal volunteering roles.

Who Gives Back? The Demographics of UK Volunteers

Understanding who volunteers is crucial for developing effective strategies to support and encourage participation across all segments of society. Analysis of volunteering rates across different demographic groups reveals important patterns.

Regarding age, data from 2021/22 indicates that individuals aged 65 to 74 exhibited the highest levels of formal volunteering across all age groups, while those aged 25 to 34 reported the lowest levels ⁵. This trend appears to have persisted into 2023-24, with the Community Life Survey confirming that adults aged 65 to 74 were the most likely to volunteer formally at least once a month, whereas adults aged 25 to 34 remained the least likely to do so ². Furthermore, there has been a reported decline in volunteering among young people, as indicated by the Youth Voice Census ². The consistent pattern of higher volunteering rates among older adults and lower rates among younger working adults suggests a need to explore and address the barriers that may prevent younger demographics from engaging in volunteering, with work commitments being a likely significant factor ².

In terms of gender, women in England are more likely than men to volunteer, both formally and informally ⁵. This gender gap, with women demonstrating greater engagement in volunteering activities, could be reflective of traditional societal roles and caregiving responsibilities that often fall disproportionately on women.

Examining ethnicity reveals variations in volunteering participation across different ethnic groups. In 2021/22, individuals identifying as White had higher rates of formal volunteering compared to some other ethnic groups ⁵. The 2023-24 data further indicates that certain ethnic groups, including those identifying as Chinese, Mixed White and Black Caribbean, and Asian, were less likely to engage in formal volunteering at least once a month compared to the average for England ⁷. These disparities underscore the importance of prioritizing diversity and inclusion within volunteering initiatives ³. Efforts to ensure that volunteer schemes are accessible to people from all backgrounds, including addressing obstacles such as language barriers and cultural nuances, are increasingly being emphasized ³.

Socioeconomic background also plays a significant role in volunteering participation. Evidence suggests that individuals residing in more deprived areas face greater barriers to volunteering and are less likely to volunteer formally ¹. Moreover, they are more likely to express concerns about incurring out-of-pocket expenses as a result of volunteering ¹. Volunteers from more deprived areas also report lower levels of satisfaction with their volunteering experience and are more likely to experience negative effects on their health and well-being due to their involvement ⁵. These findings highlight that financial constraints and other challenges associated with socioeconomic deprivation significantly impact volunteering participation, emphasizing the necessity for support mechanisms to enable volunteering for individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is likely to exacerbate these existing barriers.

Where Volunteers Make a Difference: Key Sectors in 2025

Volunteers contribute their time and effort across a wide range of sectors, reflecting diverse interests and community needs. According to the Time Well Spent survey, the most popular causes for formal volunteers in recent years include local community or neighborhood groups, health/disability and social welfare organizations, and hobbies/recreational/arts/social clubs ¹. Beyond these prominent areas, volunteers also play crucial roles in sectors such as education, environmental conservation, and the arts. Notably, corporate volunteering initiatives often focus on areas like youth education, climate action, and support for those experiencing homelessness, indicating a growing engagement in broader societal issues ⁸. While specific data on shifts in sector popularity for 2025 is not yet available, the continued prominence of local community groups and social welfare suggests an enduring focus on grassroots initiatives and support for vulnerable populations. The increasing emphasis on corporate volunteering in areas like climate action may reflect a growing societal awareness of environmental concerns. It is also plausible that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis could lead to an increased concentration of volunteering efforts within the social welfare and poverty relief sectors as needs within these areas grow.

Evolving Forms of Giving: Emerging Trends in UK Volunteering

The landscape of volunteering in the UK is not static; it is continually adapting to reflect changes in society, technology, and individual preferences. Several key trends are shaping how people engage in volunteering in 2025.

The rise of micro-volunteering represents a significant shift towards more flexible and accessible forms of contribution. Micro-volunteering, characterized by short, often online tasks, offers a way for individuals with limited time to make a meaningful impact ³. Its benefits include flexibility, accessibility, and the ability to engage individuals who might be hesitant to commit to longer-term roles. Examples of micro-volunteering activities can range from online research and social media promotion to drafting funding bids or providing expert advice. This trend suggests that volunteering is becoming more adaptable to the demands of modern, busy lifestyles, potentially broadening participation by lowering the initial commitment required.

Another prominent trend is the surge in remote volunteering. Enabled by technology, remote volunteering allows individuals to contribute their skills and time to organizations from any location ¹. This offers significant advantages in terms of flexibility, breaking down geographical barriers, and providing opportunities for individuals with mobility issues or time constraints. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote volunteering, and it has since become a mainstream option, allowing organizations to tap into a wider pool of potential volunteers with diverse skills.

Corporate volunteering continues to gain momentum, with an increasing number of companies actively encouraging and facilitating volunteering opportunities for their employees ³. These programs often include virtual volunteering, skills-based volunteering where employees use their professional expertise to support charities, and team-building activities focused on community impact. Corporate volunteering offers mutual benefits, enhancing employee engagement and skills development while providing valuable resources and expertise to the voluntary sector. This trend highlights the growing recognition of social responsibility within the corporate world and its potential to contribute to the broader volunteering ecosystem.

Finally, there is an increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion within volunteering. Organizations are actively working to make their volunteer schemes more accessible to individuals from all backgrounds ³. This includes efforts to remove barriers related to language, culture, and accessibility for people with disabilities. The focus on diversity and inclusion reflects a broader societal commitment to equity and a recognition that diverse perspectives enrich the volunteering experience and lead to more impactful outcomes.

The Digital Helping Hand: Technology's Impact on Volunteering

Technology and digital platforms are playing an increasingly transformative role in the realm of volunteering, influencing how volunteers are recruited, managed, and how they contribute to various causes.

Online platforms and apps have become essential tools for connecting potential volunteers with suitable opportunities ¹³. Volunteer recruitment platforms have experienced a surge in demand, streamlining the process for both individuals seeking to volunteer and organizations looking for support ¹³. Digital tools have the potential to significantly increase the reach and diversity of volunteer recruitment efforts, making it easier for people to find opportunities that align with their interests, skills, and availability.

Volunteer management systems (VMS) are also becoming increasingly prevalent, helping organizations to streamline various administrative tasks associated with managing volunteers ¹⁵. These systems often include features for scheduling, communication, tracking volunteer hours, and managing event logistics. Examples of VMS used in the UK include Rosterfy and TeamKinetic ¹⁵. Additionally, corporate volunteering software is available to help businesses manage their employee volunteering programs ²⁰.

As previously mentioned, technology is the backbone of the rise in remote volunteering. Video conferencing, online collaboration tools, and other digital communication methods enable volunteers to contribute effectively from anywhere with an internet connection ¹². This has significantly expanded the possibilities for volunteering, allowing individuals to engage in meaningful ways regardless of their geographical location or physical limitations.

Furthermore, technology can play a crucial role in helping volunteers track and demonstrate the impact of their contributions ³. Online systems and platforms can be used to measure and report on the outcomes of volunteer work, providing valuable feedback to volunteers and highlighting their importance to the organizations they support.

However, the increasing reliance on technology in volunteering also brings to light the challenges of digital inclusion. A significant digital divide exists, and it is crucial to ensure that the use of technology does not exclude potential volunteers who may lack access to necessary devices, internet connectivity, or digital literacy skills ¹. Addressing these barriers is essential to ensure equitable access to volunteering opportunities for all members of society.

Navigating the Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities in 2025

The volunteering sector in the UK in 2025 faces a complex landscape characterized by both significant challenges and promising opportunities.

One of the primary challenges is the ongoing difficulty in recruiting and retaining volunteers, particularly for traditional, longer-term roles ³. Reports indicate a decline in overall volunteering rates, and many organizations struggle to find enough volunteers to meet their objectives ³. The cost-of-living crisis has further exacerbated this issue, with financial pressures and increased working hours reducing the capacity of many individuals to dedicate time to unpaid work ³.

Funding also remains a significant challenge for the volunteering sector. There is a noted lack of strategic funding for infrastructure organizations that support volunteering efforts ²⁷. Concerns about funding levels within the broader voluntary sector persist, further impacting the ability of organizations to effectively recruit, train, and support their volunteers ²⁸.

Volunteer burnout is another critical concern, particularly among those who volunteer in essential sectors facing increased demand ²⁷. The risk of burnout or long-term ill health among core volunteer demographics, including older individuals who have historically formed a significant portion of the volunteer base, needs to be addressed. Additionally, the local volunteering infrastructure is sometimes perceived as fragmented, which can hinder coordination and support within the sector ²⁷.

Despite these challenges, several opportunities exist to strengthen and revitalize volunteering in the UK. The rise of micro and remote volunteering presents a significant opportunity to overcome time constraints and geographical barriers, potentially tapping into a wider and more diverse pool of individuals who may not be able to commit to traditional volunteering roles ³.

The increasing engagement of the corporate sector in providing volunteering opportunities for employees also offers a valuable resource for the voluntary sector. Building strong partnerships with businesses can lead to increased volunteer numbers and access to a diverse range of skills and expertise ³.

There is also a growing emphasis on skills-based volunteering, where individuals offer their professional skills to support charities and non-profit organizations. This trend allows organizations to access specialized expertise that they might not otherwise be able to afford ⁸.

Adopting locally-led approaches to volunteering can improve engagement and outcomes by recognizing and leveraging the unique motivations and networks within local communities ²⁷. Appreciating the importance of place in people's decisions to volunteer can lead to more effective and sustainable initiatives.

Furthermore, there is an opportunity for more consistent and intentional cross-government collaboration to ensure that volunteering is effectively integrated into relevant policies and strategies ²⁷. This can help to minimize conflicting policies and maximize the support provided to the volunteering sector.

Finally, updating the language used to describe volunteering to better reflect how volunteers themselves perceive their contributions, such as using the term 'helping out' instead of 'volunteering', could broaden the appeal of volunteering and make it feel more inclusive to a wider range of people ²⁷.

Making a Real Difference: Inspiring Volunteering Initiatives Across the UK

Across the UK, numerous inspiring volunteering initiatives demonstrate the profound impact that individuals can have on their communities and causes they care about.

Event-based volunteering provides opportunities for people to contribute to specific events, often with a significant fundraising component. For instance, My Cause UK partners with various festivals, allowing volunteers to support the events in exchange for free entry while raising funds for their chosen charities ³⁰. Similarly, Cancer Research UK's Race for Life events rely heavily on enthusiastic volunteers who help to ensure the smooth running of these crucial fundraising events for cancer research ³¹.

Community support initiatives showcase the direct impact of volunteering on local areas. In Sutton, a Ukraine support project provides mental health support to adults from the Ukrainian community, and a Community Volunteer Squad assists residents with practical tasks like decluttering ³². These examples highlight how volunteers address specific needs within their local communities.

Student volunteering initiatives engage young people in giving back. Student Volunteering Week, for example, sees universities and schools across the UK organizing various opportunities for students to get involved, such as the Habitat Harbour Pottery Workshop and park helper sessions at the University of Portsmouth ³³. These initiatives not only benefit the community but also help students develop valuable skills and a sense of civic responsibility. Community transport organizations also actively engage students during this week, recognizing the mutual benefits of involving young people in their services ³⁴.

Environmental volunteering efforts focus on protecting and enhancing the natural environment. The Telegraph Woods Nature Recovery Group, for example, offers regular litter picking opportunities, contributing to the preservation of local green spaces ³⁵.

These examples, while diverse, illustrate the wide range of ways in which volunteers are making a tangible difference across the UK, contributing their time, skills, and passion to a multitude of causes and highlighting the vital role of volunteering in building stronger and more resilient communities.

Conclusion: The Future of Giving Back - A Resilient and Evolving Volunteering Sector

In conclusion, the state of volunteering in the UK in 2025 is characterized by a dynamic interplay of enduring commitment and evolving trends. While formal volunteering rates remain below pre-pandemic levels, the rise of micro and remote volunteering indicates a significant adaptation to modern lifestyles and preferences. Technology continues to play a crucial role in facilitating and enhancing volunteering efforts, from online recruitment and management to enabling remote contributions and demonstrating impact.

The sector faces ongoing challenges, including the recruitment and retention of volunteers, funding constraints, and the risk of volunteer burnout, particularly amidst the cost-of-living crisis. However, opportunities abound in leveraging the flexibility of new volunteering models, tapping into the potential of corporate volunteering, and fostering locally-led initiatives. The increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion promises to create a more equitable and representative volunteering landscape.

The numerous inspiring initiatives across the UK serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of giving and the profound impact that volunteers have on their communities and the causes they support. As the volunteering sector continues to adapt and evolve, its resilience and potential for continued positive impact on UK society remain strong. Moving forward, a focus on addressing the barriers to participation, embracing technological advancements thoughtfully, and celebrating the contributions of volunteers will be essential to ensuring a vibrant and thriving volunteering sector for years to come.


Sources: Available on request.