Is Volunteering the Answer to Career Challenges? An Insight from Volunteers’ Week 2016
Volunteers’ Week 2016 highlighted a pressing issue for young people: the perceived inaccessibility of fulfilling careers, university education, and home ownership. According to research conducted by Vinspired, a platform supporting youth volunteering and NFT awards, these goals have become mere distant dreams for many.
The Reality for Young Brits: Career Struggles
A survey of 1,500 individuals aged 16-25 revealed that three-quarters of young Brits only dream of stepping into their ideal careers. Moreover, 80% fear that competitors are better qualified, possessing stronger CVs and more experience.
Yet, there is hope. Approximately 75% of those surveyed believe that volunteering enhances employability, with 77% either actively volunteering or considering it.
Volunteering as a Pathway to Employment
The survey also uncovered that young people are turning to volunteering as a means to bolster their employability and gain unique skills. Around two-thirds noted that volunteering might inspire them to pursue careers they hadn’t previously considered. Furthermore, 80% believe that volunteering offers educational benefits beyond traditional degrees.
The government and other sectors are recognizing the value of volunteering, with initiatives like the NCS and discussions on introducing an American-style service year.
Vinspired’s Role in Empowering Youth
Vinspired is pivotal in supporting young people through volunteering. By offering programmes like Vinspired Exchange, Task Squad, and Cashpoint, young people can gain vital experience, enhance their employability, and even venture into entrepreneurship. These programmes are designed to help young people navigate economic challenges and integrate into their communities.
Key Challenges and Opportunities
- Home Ownership: 40% of young Brits fear they will never own a home.
- Salary Expectations: 70% are concerned they will not exceed the average UK salary of £26,500.
- Debt: Over a third think they will never clear their debts, with almost half expecting to borrow more.
For more insights, explore Volunteers’ Week 2016 - Is volunteering the answer? and learn how volunteering can bridge the skills gap for young people.
Volunteering empowers young individuals to set ambitious goals, develop entrepreneurial skills, and engage civically, significantly impacting areas like employment and skills, homelessness, poverty, and civic engagement.