2nd June 2025 Volunteering for impact
At The Talent Foundry, we’ve always believed that talent is everywhere - but opportunity is not. Our latest Volunteering for Impact report reveals just how powerful employee volunteering can be in closing that gap, helping young people from under-served communities to unlock their potential.
In 2023-24, over 1,800 volunteers worked with us to support nearly 65,000 students across 140+ local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales. From delivering workshops to mentoring and sharing career stories, their involvement brought the world of work into the classroom - and the results speak for themselves.
Volunteers not only offered students real-world insights into careers and industries but also acted as relatable role models. Meeting professionals who grew up nearby or shared similar backgrounds inspired young people to aim higher and think bigger.
It was so fulfilling! To engage with young people I personally identify with and say ‘you can achieve anything’ was so rewarding.
The report found that 92% of volunteers want to do it again, while 90% said the experience was valuable to their employer. And schools agree: 95% of educators reported that The Talent Foundry programmes added value to their careers education provision.
Win-Win
Volunteering also helps employees develop vital skills in communication, leadership, mentoring and more.
According to the report, 84% of volunteers said they had a greater understanding of the barriers facing young people today - insight that can shape more inclusive recruitment practices and workplace culture.
Volunteering also boosts job satisfaction, retention, and employee engagement. One volunteer said:
I’m immensely proud of the project and grateful to my employer for supporting me to attend. I feel more energised and hopeful for the future.
Our five-point plan for designing volunteering for impact
Based on our experience delivering programmes in partnership with 21 businesses, we’ve identified five key principles for designing rewarding volunteer initiatives:
- Foster strong relationships with schools and communities
- Align volunteering with employee interests
- Offer skill development opportunities
- Provide structured, well-organised sessions
- Celebrate and give feedback
These elements ensure that volunteering is meaningful, rewarding and delivers lasting outcomes for all involved.
Jenni Anderson, Chief Executive at The Talent Foundry said:
"Reading all the inspiring stories and feedback from volunteers in this report reminded me, in these challenging times, what a difference human and in-person connections can make to young people's confidence and aspirations. A huge thank you to everyone who has given their time and shown compassion and understanding for young people and the barriers they face to leaving school work ready."