Gen Z is the age group most likely to consider volunteering for the NHS, according to a poll by healthcare volunteering charity Helpforce.
It found that a third of 18–24-year-olds would consider giving their time to the NHS, compared to 24% of UK adults overall.
When asked what would motivate them to volunteer, the top reasons given by Gen Z respondents were making a difference to someone’s life, giving back to the NHS, and gaining a sense of purpose.
Helpforce said the finding turns the traditional image of healthcare volunteers – typically those nearing or beyond retirement – on its head.
And backed by NHS Providers and the Health Foundation, the charity is now urging the Government to target young adults in a volunteer recruitment drive to help tackle NHS waiting list crisis.
Amerjit Chohan, chief executive of Helpforce, said that the poll, conducted by YouGov on behalf of the charity showed a large cohort of potential volunteers – ‘a pool of almost 1.9million GenZers’.
‘Even if only five per cent could be enticed into volunteering roles, that would result in the NHS being bolstered by an additional 95,000 eager helpers, virtually doubling the size of the present volunteer force,’ he said.
Helpforce evidence suggests that for every 10,000 new NHS ‘response volunteers’ recruited, 1.1 million hours of annual efficiency gains can be achieved by the health service.
Dr Jennifer Dixon DBE, chief executive of the Health Foundation, said volunteering could also inspire future NHS careers among Gen Z.
‘As well as those aged 18 to 24 having a great deal to offer the NHS as volunteers, exposing them to healthcare settings is likely to interest them in a career in the NHS – which could be hugely worthwhile for them, and boost the NHS workforce with young, committed talent,’ said Dr Dixon.
As well as Gen Z, the poll also found enthusiasm for healthcare volunteering among 28% of 25 to 34-year-olds, 23% in the 35-54 bracket, and 20% of those aged 55 and over.
An estimated 100,000 people of all ages already volunteer in NHS wards and clinics across the UK.
These trained volunteers carry out basic tasks that ease pressure on doctors, nurses, and healthcare assistants. Helpforce data shows 86% of frontline NHS staff say support from trained volunteers improves the care they deliver.
The survey coincides with the launch of Helpforce’s new awareness campaign, Giving Back, Transforming Care.
