The findings, taken from the 2001 Home Office Citizenship Survey, show how this equates to 68 hours and a value of around £1.1 billion. Employer-supported giving schemes are also proving fruitful, with approximately 2.8 million people in England and Wales using them to give to charities of their choice.

The findings confirm the fact that support from British businesses is vital to building strong, active communities, says charities minister, Fiona Mactaggart.

“Everyone has a role to play in building strong, active communities. Today’s report shows the big contribution that can be made by volunteering and giving schemes for employees,” she said. “And there is strong evidence that companies that have active community policies not only develop an enhanced reputation in the community, but as a direct result of this, new opportunities for their business can be presented. I hope now that this report inspires further action.”

The report can be downloaded from www.homeoffice.gov.uk