Ed, what factors – both internal and external – might act as ‘blockers’ to discourage men, in particular, from volunteering for a charity?
“Traditionally, it’s men who’ve worked full-time jobs, whereas women have tended to choose flexibility – perhaps taking time out to raise a family and later, when returning to the workforce, taking a part time role to fit with the children’s school life. Men, therefore, may have had fewer opportunities to donate their time to other activities during the week.
“Culturally, women have adopted a more caring mindset than men, perhaps because of bringing up children. Conversely, most men are task-focused, so thinking about interpersonal factors doesn’t come naturally. While most men are willing to help, they often don’t want to get involved in open-ended commitments: instead preferring to engage in those of the specific, short-term variety. What can then happen, however, is a kind of cyclical effect; a ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’ in which fewer male volunteers means fewer role models to attract male recruits going forward. It’s something we need to tackle together.”
Is it a charity’s responsibility to mitigate these factors by reaching out to men, specifically, to encourage them to volunteer?
“Absolutely – but tailoring this message to the right audience is vital.
“It’s also crucial to appeal to the community spirit of the men in ellenor’s native Kent and Bexley communities. To remind them that ellenor is a local charity, helping local people; as well as appealing, in particular, to people whose families and friends ellenor has supported. There’s definitely scope for appealing to individuals’ social networks, too – to invite local men to come meet people, make new friends, and pitch in to support ellenor.”
What health benefits – be they mental, physical, emotional, or social – might a man gain by volunteering for a charity?
“Scientists have unearthed a strong correlation between the number of social contacts a person has and the length of their lives. So for men, volunteering – an activity which gets you out of the house and mixing with positive, active people – is literally the elixir of life!”
“This is especially important for retired men, and those living alone. We’re all hardwired by evolution to look for a purpose in life. The death of a partner or the end of a long 9 to 5 working life can completely throw off any existing ideas of who we are – our identity – and leave us rudderless and lost. But volunteering brings you together with others who also want to contribute to their community; and make the world that little bit more liveable.”
Can volunteering play a role in helping men cope with bereavement and loss, and how?
“Yes, it can. There are many male volunteers at ellenor who have had their other half pass away. A volunteering position has given them a purpose, bolstered their social networks, and provided them with an opportunity to make the world a little brighter. Take Micky, for example – a Black Cab driver who, after losing his wife Barbara to cancer, found solace in volunteering for ellenor: donating his time, petrol, and four wheels to ferry the hospice charity’s families for special days out.”
