Marvin OnumonuThe latest report from OnHand found a huge gap between company volunteering policies and what employees actually do in the workplace.
Out of 471 employees surveyed from different sectors and company sizes, 77.3% said their workplace offers volunteering during work hours, but 38% have never taken part, and fewer than one in 10 volunteer monthly or weekly.
The report found that clarity was a major issue, with 16.5% of staff not knowing how much volunteering time they get at work.
72% said they do not think employees who volunteer are more valued.
Over half (60%) said they do not notice or are not sure if volunteering helps productivity or morale.
Most workplaces only offer one volunteering day a year, with just 3.8% offering six or more.
Two or three days was the next most common.
Still, 72% said their workplace culture is supportive of volunteering, showing a clear gap between attitude and what actually happens.
Sanjay Lobo, founder and CEO at OnHand, said: “Unfortunately, employees aren’t seeing the benefits of volunteering yet, including that it can boost productivity and morale. Those who do volunteer report tangible benefits.
“Almost 40% of respondents say that volunteering has positively impacted their productivity in the workplace, as well as their motivation, mindfulness, team relationships, morale, skills and attitude.”
The report also found that newer staff, especially those with six to 12 months in the job, were least likely to know about or use volunteering schemes.
This could mean companies are missing a chance to engage new hires, especially younger workers.
Lobo added: “The issue of employees not engaging with availability opportunities lies in a combination of factors such as lack of clarity about policies, insufficient flexibility and limited cultural reinforcement.
“Your employees don’t have the right information about volunteering at work, so they aren’t getting involved. While the desire and resources to provide volunteering opportunities are there, encouraging your employees to make an impact requires a finer-tuned approach than just introducing a volunteering policy and expecting them to manage it themselves.
“As leaders, you need to celebrate employees who volunteer as this motivates and inspires others.”
He said: “Introducing flexible opportunities for your employees to do good when, where and how they want is important.
“And leading by example is key as well as ensuring a volunteering policy is clear.
“By prioritising these four checkpoints, you’ll boost your workplace volunteering scheme and close any disconnect between policy and practice.”
