The Value of Volunteering in the UK

Volunteering plays a vital role in communities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with millions of people giving their time and skills to support others every year. Volunteers help strengthen communities, improve wellbeing, and create positive change for people of all ages.

The impact of volunteering is significant. An estimated 14.2 million people in the UK formally volunteer at least once a month, supporting charities, community groups, schools, and local initiatives. Alongside this, around 25 million people volunteer informally each year, helping neighbours, friends, and local communities in everyday ways.

Volunteering also brings major economic value. In 2024 alone, volunteering contributed an estimated £4.6 billion in productivity gains to the UK economy, demonstrating the powerful social and financial impact volunteers make across the country.

At Breathing Space, we see first-hand the incredible difference volunteers make. We are proud to support many organisations that rely on volunteers, from local charities to community groups and organisations such as the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. These volunteers are often the heart of the services they provide, bringing compassion, dedication, and energy to the people and communities they support.

Working closely with charities and volunteer-led organisations has shown us that volunteering is about far more than giving time. It creates confidence, develops skills, improves wellbeing, and builds meaningful human connections. Many volunteers gain valuable experience, friendships, and a sense of purpose, while organisations benefit from the passion and commitment volunteers bring every day.

There is also a growing opportunity for businesses to support volunteering within the workplace. Allowing employees dedicated time to volunteer for causes they are passionate about can have a powerful impact on wellbeing, engagement, and morale. Employees often return feeling more motivated, connected, and fulfilled, while businesses strengthen their culture, values, and connection to the communities they serve.

At Breathing Space, we encourage organisations to recognise the wellbeing benefits of volunteering and to consider how employee volunteering initiatives can positively support both people and business performance.

Volunteers’ Week 2026 is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate every volunteer across the UK. Whether helping at community events, supporting vulnerable individuals, fundraising, mentoring, or simply offering a listening ear, every contribution matters and every volunteer makes a difference.