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The Impacts of Volunteering on the Subjective Wellbeing of volunteers: A Rapid Evidence Assessment
Volunteering New Zealand, 2020.

This comprehensive report reviewed the existing literature on the impacts of volunteering on the subjective well-being of volunteers. 158 international studies about the subject of the well-being impacts of volunteering were reviewed to explore the effects of formal volunteering on subjective well-being for different population groups and different types and levels of volunteering.

The findings revealed that volunteering is positively associated with the subjective well-being of volunteers, characterised by higher levels of life satisfaction, increased happiness, and reduced symptoms of depression. However, this does not mean that volunteering always results in improved well-being. There is still a significant research gap in the possible negative effects of some volunteering activities on the well-being of volunteers.

Although the review was conducted prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the findings are highly relevant for recovery planning. The report is especially useful for designing and delivery of volunteering programs, for volunteer managers, policymakers, and funders.

Research Briefing: The experience of volunteers during COVID-19
Volunteering Australia, 2020.

Volunteering Australia commissioned the Australian National University (ANU) Centre for Social Research and Methods to undertake analysis of the experience of volunteers during COVID-19 to date. Their analysis draws on the ANUpoll which involves a regular survey of around 3000 Australians that produces nationally representative results.

System: The funding gap and how to bridge it
Social Service Providers Aotearoa, 2019.

In April 2019, Social Service Providers Aotearoa (SSPA) commissioned MartinJenkins to conduct research and economic analysis to quantify the funding gap faced by social service providers (providers) and offer recommendations on how to bridge it.

The impact of volunteering on the health and well-being of the volunteer

Volunteer Ireland, 2017.

This report from Volunteer Ireland aims to promote discussion and awareness of the connection between a person’s volunteering experience and their well-being. Excerpt: “A report of the National Economic and Council (NESC) from 2009 describes well-being as being about a positive physical, social and mental state. It highlights the importance of the individual’s sense of purpose and ability to participate in society as components of well-being.”

Rewarding work: Cross-national differences in benefits, volunteering during unemployment, well-being and mental health

Kamerāde, D; Bennett, M.R. University of Salford, 2017.

This article looks at the mental health and well-being of unemployed people in Europe who engage in volunteer work compared to those who do not. The study finds that volunteering when unemployed can be bad for mental health unless it is combined with generous welfare benefits.

Health and Safety Guide – Good governance for directors

Institute of Directors & WorkSafe, March 2016.

This guide aims to raise awareness of the importance of health and safety in New Zealand businesses and to educate directors about their roles and responsibilities. Excerpt: “The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requires directors to take ultimate responsibility for the health and safety of their business. Directors must have knowledge of and commitment to health and safety, but contrary to some beliefs, are not expected to be experts to meet the
expectations of the Act.”

Volunteers
Employment New Zealand, 2016.

Excerpt: “A volunteer is not an employee and therefore is not covered by employment law. For somebody to be a volunteer they must not expect payment and they must not receive payment. It is often obvious when someone is a volunteer, for example, volunteering once weekly for a charity or community with no expectation of payment. The situation can be much more complicated when it comes to work experience, work trials and unpaid internships.”

Health and safety protections – Community Law

This article covers the laws around Health & Safety protections in Aotearoa New Zealand. Excerpt: “The Act covers a limited category of volunteers who do regular and ongoing work. You’re protected as one of these volunteers (called “volunteer workers” in the Act) only if the organisation you volunteer for employs one or more staff, and the volunteer work you do is regular and ongoing and is an “integral part” of the organisation, and you’re not involved in any of the following exempted activities: fundraising; helping with sport or recreation (like coaching your child’s team for their school or club); helping schools or other educational institutions with off-site trips and activities; or providing care in your own home.Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, s 36(2)