Volunteering levels have fluctuated between 18 and 20% of the population, but have remained broadly flat since 2003 despite government initiatives, according to new research.

British Volunteering 2001-2007, from think tank nfpSynergy, found that government spend on volunteering bears little relation to demographic shifts. For example, volunteering among 25-34 year olds, who have not been targeted by government volunteering initiatives, rose from 11% in 2001 to 18% in 2007. Alternatively, the level of volunteering among 54-64 year olds, who have been targeted, has dropped by a third – from 23% to 16%.

Commenting on the findings, Joe Saxton, founder of nfpSynergy, said: “Since 2003, volunteering levels in Britain have been fluctuating but broadly flat. Moreover, in some age demographs - notably older ones, and despite targeted campaigns – levels have notably slumped; whilst they have risen amongst other far less targeted groups, like 25-34 year olds. The government’s strategy bears little relation to trends; and has failed to deliver rising volunteer numbers thus far.”