What’s Happening in the Third Sector?
Volunteering Matters 2024 Impact Report
Volunteering Matters has released its 2024 Impact Report, celebrating the incredible contributions of over 10,000 volunteers across the UK. From tackling social isolation to improving health and driving grassroots change, their efforts continue to transform communities.
Key highlights:
- 4,152 volunteers boosted Scotland’s biodiversity through Action Earth.
- 3,545+ volunteers led change via the Retired and Senior Volunteers Programme.
- 568 young people made an impact through activism and volunteering.
- 286 volunteers supported 250 care-experienced young people.
- 95% of volunteers felt they made a real difference.
Volunteering Matters has a new five-year strategy launching in 2025 to expand partnerships, diversify funding, and strengthen community support. Read the full report:
How Recognition and Stigma Affect Volunteer Wellbeing
A recent study looked at how perceptions associated with volunteering, both good and bad, can influence volunteers’ mental health. Research was conducted in Hubei Province, China with 822 Red Cross volunteers.
So, what did the research find?
Feeling Appreciated is Good for Mental Health
It might seem obvious, but volunteers who feel recognised for their contributions tend to be happier and less likely to experience depression. A positive team environment where volunteers feel valued boosts self-esteem and motivation.
Stigma Can Have a Negative Impact
Volunteers who feel judged or misunderstood are more likely to struggle with their mental health. An example of this might be if others think they are volunteering for the wrong reasons. This highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere in volunteer teams.
Personality Plays a Role
Volunteers who are reliable, kind, and cooperative cope better with negative perceptions. Open-minded volunteers, who enjoy new experiences and exploring different perspectives, are more affected by stigma. Highly sensitive volunteers are at greater risk of feeling overwhelmed by negative team dynamics.
Why People Volunteer Affects Their Experience
Volunteers who sign up to learn and grow personally or express their values are more emotionally impacted by stigma. Those who volunteer for career progression or social reasons tend to be less affected by negative perceptions.
What This Means for Volunteer Managers
Recognition Matters
Regularly thanking and celebrating volunteers makes a real difference to their well-being.
Watch Out for Stigma
Encourage a positive team culture where all efforts are appreciated, no matter why someone chooses to volunteer.
Different People Need Different Support
Volunteers who are highly sensitive or open-minded may need extra reassurance when facing negative experiences. Those who volunteer to develop skills will benefit from training and learning opportunities to keep them engaged.
Make Mental Health Part of the Conversation
Simple check-ins and a culture of openness can go a long way in ensuring volunteers feel supported.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive volunteer environment. When volunteers feel valued and respected, they are happier, healthier, and more likely to stay engaged. Which, of course, benefits both them and the community they serve.
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