Voluntary Sector Support Guidance

Diversify your volunteer base: People of minority genders in volunteering

Overview

Volunteering should be inclusive of all genders, yet many people feel excluded due to stereotypes, language, or lack of representation. Research by Brighton Man Plan found that 82% of fathers says they want to spend more time with their families, making volunteering a lower priority. Others may feel anxious about being misgendered or not seeing themselves reflected in volunteer roles.

Key Challenges and Barriers

Lack of representation can lead to anxiety and hesitation when applying for volunteering roles
Gendered language and stereotypes in recruitment materials can isolate potential volunteers
Fear of being misgendered or deadnamed
Caring responsibilities that limit availability

Practical Suggestions for Engagement

Recruitment

Use gender-neutral language in all communications
Ask for pronouns on application forms and encourage staff to share theirs
Target recruitment towards underrepresented genders in specific roles
Promote the non-economic benefits of volunteering – wellbeing, connection, purpose etc
Challenge stereotypes by inviting men into caring roles and women into traditionally masculine roles

Role Design

Offer flexibility to accommodate caring responsibilities
Create family volunteering opportunities – e.g. dads and children volunteering together
Actively recruit for male mentoring roles and other areas where men are underrepresented

Volunteer Experience

Respond quickly to reports of inappropriate behaviour
Support volunteers in non-traditional roles
Create a welcoming environment for trans and non-binary volunteers
Include gender equality discussions in training and meetings
Consider gender-neutral facilities and inclusive language (e.g. “partner” instead of “girlfriend/boyfriend”)
Celebrate the impact of male volunteers in the community