We launched our annual student survey in February, receiving 1,116 responses from students across City’s schools, year groups, degree programmes and with varying levels of participation in volunteering. The aim was to capture the picture of student volunteering, understand the patterns of current students’ volunteering efforts, and identify barriers to participation for those that don’t. Here are our key findings from the survey data that we think will be insightful for our partners:

1. Over half of City volunteers are within two of the University's Schools

31.4% of student volunteers from our survey are studying in the School of Health and Psychological Sciences; a further 21.7% are in the City Law School. As such, roles such as administration, client services, advice and information, casework, and psychological support services are in demand. 

2. Over 70% of students volunteer for their career

City University's slogan is "the university of business, practice and the professions", so it is unspirising to find that when asked about motivations to volunteer, students overwhelmingly responded with career aspirations. 71% of students volunteer to develop new skills, and 71% of students volunteer to improve their employability. They are particularly looking for roles that allow development of vocational and technical skills that they can learn and showcase to future employers. 

3. Students want to volunteer for a range of causes, but some more than others

Overwhelmingly, students who don't currently volunteer are interested in healthcare (20.7%) and humanitarianism (17.1%). Many are also looking in other sectors, such as mental health (7.2%), children and young people (7.2%), education (6.8%) and disability (5.6%). We are always keen to welcome roels in these areas.

4. Students face multiple, intersecting barriers to volunteering

Unsurprisingly, 66% of students not currently volunteering say their study commitments prevent them from doing so. However, 32% identified paid working commitments as a barrier, and 11% mention family and caring commitments. Therefore, roles that are flexible in commitment and working hours are likely to be more accessible to our students.

5. 92% of students not currently volunteering would consider doing it next year

Although most students have not actively participated in volunteering whilst at City (76.8%), many would consider doing it if given the right support. This shows that there is an appetite for volunteering, but that accessibility, relevance and opportunities for professional and personal development are important factors for charity partners to consider when uploading roles to our website.