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18th December 2025
Institute for Volunteering Research
Dr Jurgen Grotz (Director)
On 10th December 2025 the Department for Culture, Media & Sport published the latest figures from its Community Life Survey 2024/25 annual publication - GOV.UK. The report covers several measures of social cohesion, community engagement and social action over the period October 2024 to March 2025, including individuals’ formal and informal volunteering once a month or once a year. These figures have been collected regularly since 2001.
The data confirms the reduction in numbers of volunteers was not just due to a COVID break but marks a continuing trend with fewer volunteers overall.
However, this survey also provides information about differences hiding behind the cumulative numbers, for example, that the more affluent are more likely to volunteer. This we have known for a long time. As with all such surveys we must consider many limitations, such as changes in methodology over time, Nonetheless, the trend is clear.
While the survey is telling us nothing new, it does confirm that current approaches to strengthening volunteer involvement in England are not working. Yet, there is no sign of learning amongst the major stakeholders to reflect this, nor any indication that they are likely to change course. If you are seeking causes for falling volunteer numbers, you need not look further. However, the work of IVR critically examining effects and experiences of formal volunteering policies is helping inform, generate and evidence alternative approaches.
Let us know what you think by emailing info.ivr@uea.ac.uk