The charity sector has shed its “cardigan brigade” label and is an attractive career option for people, according to new research by the organisers of Forum 3, a not-for-profit recruitment and volunteering event.

It found that six out of ten employees believe it is a sector that can offer strong career prospects, while 85% of those looking for a career change would consider working for a charity. However, while three out of four people viewed it as the “sexiest” sector, only 3% would opt to work with housing associations implying that this sub-sector has the most work to do in attracting and retaining the best candidates.

Being able to progress in a career while helping a greater cause was the most popular (73%) reason for wanting to work in the sector, however, pay remains the biggest barrier with 70% of commercial sector workers being put off taking a job due to low salaries. Almost half (43%) would be reluctant to apply for a role owing to a lack of experience in the field.

Deborah Hockham, project director for forum3, said: “It’s immensely encouraging to see that the not-for-profit sector is finally losing its cardigan brigade label and being viewed as a sector which can offer strong prospects. However it is clear the sector has its work cut out in combating a number of misperceptions. As pay gaps have narrowed, and in many areas not-for-profit pay scales have become fully aligned with those in the commercial sector, the sector clearly needs to raise awareness of, and promote this message.”

For more information visit www.forum3.co.uk