Oxfordshire charity says volunteering helps people combat loneliness and isolation
New survey finds nearly half of Gen Z are lonely, as Oxfam encourages people to volunteer
An Oxfordshire charity is encouraging more young people to take up volunteering to better their mental health.
Nearly half (47 per cent) of people aged between 16-28 say they often feel lonely, according to a poll published by Oxfam.
The research also found that over a quarter of Gen Z also say they do not feel connected to a community with a lack of social opportunities being the main reason for their loneliness.
They say, over a third (38%) of Gen Z respondents would be more likely to volunteer than go to a pub or club.
The charity is encouraging young people to consider volunteering to help combat loneliness and isolation.
Karen Gurney, Oxfam’s Volunteer Development and Experience Manager, said: “While it is sadly clear that so many of our younger generation are feeling lonely and disconnected, it is heartwarming to see that they are also keen to gift their time to help others.
“There are so many joys to volunteering in an Oxfam shop, but one of its biggest strengths is the power of connection at its heart. When you volunteer with Oxfam, you become a part of a team who are making a difference every day - meeting and connecting with people while helping to raise money to tackle poverty and inequality around the world. That is something that we can all benefit from, whether you are Gen Z, retired or somewhere in between.”
Last year, over 20,000 people gave up over 2.7 million hours of their time to volunteering in Oxfam shops across the UK.
A separate survey of 1,000 people who already volunteer showed the positive impact volunteering can have with nine out of 10 respondents saying volunteering has improved their social life.
Ms Gurney added: “With nearly all volunteers reporting that it has improved their social life, and over 70 per cent saying they are less lonely – it is clear the impact volunteering can have.
“There really is something for everyone – whether it is creating wonderful window displays, providing customer service or sharing vintage expertise. We’re especially keen for volunteers to support our online shop teams; listing items, researching, writing, photographing and uploading.”