Volunteering for All: systematic review of the research literature on volunteering 2019

A systematic review of research literature on volunteering, studying more than 100 research papers to identify volunteer characteristics; motivations; activities; benefits; outcomes; barriers; and learning points from policies in other countries.

The review found a number of inequalities that prevent people from taking part in altruistic activities, including distinct challenges for traditionally excluded and disadvantaged groups and those from less-affluent backgrounds.

As a result of the review, a number of recommendations were made, which directly fed into the development of the new Volunteering for All national framework - see https://www.gov.scot/publications/volunteering-national-framework/