iVolunteer

Research indicates that social cohesion and volunteering have a bi-directional relationship, where each enhances the other over time. (Davies, Abrams, Horsham & Lalot, 2024)

Increasing volunteering activities can strengthen social bonds and community spirit, which are vital for a society’s well-being and stability. Enhanced volunteer engagement creates more opportunities for social interaction and cooperation, fostering a more cohesive community. As people volunteer more, they build stronger connections, trust, and a shared sense of purpose, all of which are essential components of a cohesive and resilient society.

The economic output generated by volunteering in England was estimated to be between £50 to £200 billion per year, which is 2.5 to 10% of the country’s GDP. (Gramatki & Watt, 2020)

The significant contributions of volunteering to GDP, as shown above, highlight the economic benefits of increasing volunteer rates. By boosting volunteer involvement, we can enhance GDP contributions, reflecting not only increased economic value but also expanded community services. This rise in volunteer activity can reduce the need for government spending on these services, creating a positive economic impact. Therefore, promoting volunteerism can lead to substantial economic gains and stronger community support systems.

Current research increasingly supports the idea that engaging with others across generations can lead to improved health, happines and potentially a longer life (Freedman, 2019)

Increased volunteer engagement strengthens crucial connections between generations, fostering intergenerational relationships that are essential for the mutual development and well-being of both older adults and youth. Enhanced intergenerational volunteering opportunities provide more chances for meaningful interactions, shared experiences, and mutual support, which benefit individuals and create a more cohesive community.