The voluntary sector workforce has grown by 26% in the last 10 years, now representing 611,000 employees, according to new research.

The UK Voluntary Sector Workforce Almanac, published by the Workforce Hub and NCVO, found that the growth of the voluntary workforce has been considerably higher than the private sector (11%) and the public sector (14%). The study also found, among other things, that 69% of the voluntary sector workforce is female – compared to a similar 64% in the public, but much lower (40%) in the private sectors.

Janet Fleming, head of the Workforce Hub, said: “This research reveals a voluntary sector workforce that is characteristically different to ten years ago. Our staff are more likely to be employed in social work in a professional capacity and to be highly skilled. We have a high proportion of employees who are female, working part-time hours and in small workplaces.”

The Almanac can be purchased for £20. Visit the publications section at
www.ncvo-vol.org.uk