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July 2023 - Voluntary

63% of small charities are worried about volunteer recruitment: A survey by Pro Bono Economics (PBE) and Nottingham Trent University has revealed that charities are having growing concerns about recruiting volunteers, with almost two-thirds of small charities feeling worried (63%) and citing it as one of the main organisational concerns – up from 45% in November.

The quarterly barometer by PBE and NTU (VCSE Sector Barometer) received over 1,000 responses, finding that four in 10 charities reported being unable to meet their objectives over the last year due to a lack of volunteers. And while concerns have grown between all sizes of charities, this has been particularly apparent among smaller charities.

The survey also found that half of the respondents polled overall said volunteer recruitment over the last year has been difficult, with 42% saying that volunteer retention is a main concern for their organisation.

The survey findings echo government data showing declining volunteer numbers over the last decade. When asked about the factors responsible, a third of charities cited the cost of living crisis as a reason for poor retention (34%) while one in five (19%) said it has made volunteer recruitment more difficult.

Optimism

However, the survey also revealed some optimism for the future was returning, with a third of larger charities polled in May 2023 stating they expect their financial position to improve in the next three months -- up from just 17% in November. Medium-sized charities reported an increase in optimism, from 21% in November to 28% in the latest survey, while a quarter of small charities said they expect their finances to improve (25% compared to 20% in November).

Looking at the reasons for this renewed optimism, the report suggests the easing of energy prices, the Chancellor's Budget announcement of £100 million for charities in England, plus the warmer weather may be factors.

Matt Whittaker, CEO of Pro Bono Economics, said:

“With the tougher winter months behind us and the first glimmers of hope emerging in the economy, our latest survey seems to suggest that the car has at least shifted out of reverse for the social sector."

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