Debunking myths about older volunteers: Why charities need to rethink their approach
Older volunteers, particularly those aged 65 and above, make significant contributions to communities and good causes across the UK. Despite this, there are pervasive myths about their ability to adapt to digital tools and technology, which can hinder their full potential as volunteers.
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport's Community Life Survey 2021/22 revealed that the 65 to 70 age group had the highest proportion of formal volunteers, participating at least once a year. Moreover, Saga reported that individuals over 50 contribute an astonishing 807 million days annually to unpaid caring and volunteering roles, valued at over £66bn to the economy.
Rethinking the Tech-Savviness of Older Volunteers
Contrary to popular belief, older volunteers are not as digitally inept as some might assume. Many have seen the evolution of technology and have adapted to using computers and other digital devices over the years. This demographic is resilient and quite capable of learning new digital skills, including using apps and software for volunteer activities.
Stephen Gott argues that charities need to reimagine their approach to older volunteers by ensuring that the technology they use is simple and user-friendly. This shift in perspective can make a significant difference in how older volunteers engage with digital tools.
Leveraging a Strong Skill Set
The majority of people nearing retirement age or older own tablets or smartphones and have internet access at home. According to Ofcom, 82% of over-64s had personal devices or internet access in 2021. Older volunteers bring valuable skills and experiences from their careers, contributing unique perspectives and life wisdom to their roles in charities.
Engaging Older Volunteers Effectively
To better engage older volunteers, charities need to address more than just their willingness to embrace technology. Government campaigns to keep over-65s in the workforce or to encourage retirees to return to work can limit the time available for volunteering. Therefore, charities must find ways to better engage and manage this demographic to benefit from their contributions.
In our guide, The Digital Difference: How technology can enhance volunteer management, charities reported that using a Volunteer Management System (VMS) streamlined the application process and improved the volunteer experience. Such systems clearly communicate what is expected and provide a structured, positive onboarding experience.
Best Practices for Engaging Older Volunteers
The Centre for Ageing Better identified five key actions for engaging older volunteers:
- Connect and Listen: Understand the motivations and needs of volunteers.
- Focus on What Matters: Align volunteer roles with their interests and passions.
- Play to People’s Strengths: Utilise the skills and experiences volunteers bring.
- Remove Barriers: Make it easy for volunteers to participate and engage. Software such as Access Assemble is perfect for this.
- Be Flexible: Adapt roles and expectations to suit volunteers' availability and capabilities.
Implementing these practices ensures that older volunteers feel valued and supported, leading to better engagement and retention.
Providing Extra Support
All volunteers, regardless of age, are often busy and may not have extensive time for training. Simple, intuitive software can make the onboarding process smoother and help manage volunteers more efficiently. Regular check-ins and additional digital support can help older volunteers who might hesitate to ask for help, ensuring they feel comfortable and competent in using necessary tools.
Better Engagement and Retention
The over-65 demographic is the UK’s largest and most dedicated group of volunteers. While they might need some assistance with technology, their wealth of experience and expertise should never be overlooked. Volunteer managers who invest in processes and provide extra support can help older volunteers feel more included and engaged, potentially leading to longer-term commitment and pride in their roles.
Conclusion
By debunking myths about older volunteers and rethinking how we engage with them, charities can harness the full potential of this valuable group. The Access Group’s Not for Profit division is committed to supporting charities in this endeavour, bringing expert thought leadership and innovative solutions to the sector.
For more insights and guidance on enhancing volunteer management with technology, explore Access Assemble and connect with our team of experts at The Access Group.
Enhancing Volunteer Management with Access Assemble
Access Assemble is a cutting-edge volunteer management solution designed to streamline and enhance the volunteer experience. This powerful platform supports better volunteering by simplifying the recruitment, onboarding, and management processes for charities. Access Assemble allows you to efficiently match volunteers with suitable roles, track their contributions, and provide ongoing support and training. Its user-friendly interface ensures that even those less familiar with technology can easily navigate and utilise the system. By reducing administrative burdens and facilitating effective communication, Access Assemble enables charities to engage their volunteers more effectively, ensuring a rewarding and impactful experience for both the volunteers and the organisations they support.
“We like how user-friendly Access Assemble is for all volunteers, no matter their age. It’s made it easier for them and allows us to speed up the volunteer process and get back to them quicker. Which means they hopefully volunteer with us and not someone else.”
- Sarah, Charity Shop Manager, Dorothy House Hospice Care
For more information visit: Access Assemble
