New research conducted by Volunteer Scotland has unveiled the significant positive impact of regular volunteering on individual wellbeing, quantifying the benefits in tangible terms. The study highlights the substantial mental and physical health advantages accrued through consistent volunteering efforts.
The findings estimate that individuals who volunteer weekly with a group or organization experience an annual wellbeing benefit valued at £1,000. This equates to approximately £20 per week (£19.23), demonstrating the consistent positive effect of regular contribution.
Across Scotland, this collective wellbeing gain translates to an impressive £530 million for Scottish volunteers. When combined with the economic value of the time contributed by these volunteers, the total social and economic value of volunteering reaches £2.3 billion. This figure surpasses the gross value added by the arts, entertainment, and recreation industry to the Scottish economy, which stands at £2.1 billion.
Alan Stevenson, CEO of Volunteer Scotland, emphasised the importance of these findings, stating, “This research celebrates the valuable contribution volunteers make to Scotland. However, with a significant decline in the volunteer participation rate, we know that people are facing many barriers to volunteering and are missing out on the wellbeing benefits volunteering has to offer them.”
Stevenson further called for action, stating, “This research highlights the critical need to remove barriers to volunteering, enabling more individuals to experience its personal and societal benefits. With this research, Volunteer Scotland calls for action to break down these barriers, ensuring that more people can enjoy the transformative benefits of volunteering.”
The study underscores the profound impact of volunteering on both individual wellbeing and the broader Scottish society, advocating for increased accessibility to volunteering opportunities.
