The positive impact of volunteering on social life
– and quality of life
Volunteering is an important driver of both social cohesion and individual well-being. It creates meaningful relationships, provides a sense of purpose and contributes positively to mental and physical health. Research from both EU (Europe) and abroad shows that volunteering can reduce loneliness, improve quality of life and even have health benefits.
Volunteering strengthens social connections
One of the biggest benefits of volunteering is the opportunity to build social networks. Working with others towards common goals creates strong relationships that can counteract loneliness and isolation. According to an article in The Guardian, volunteering can help maintain social connections and improve overall well-being, especially among older adults. (The Guardian)
This correlation is also supported by a study from Statistics Denmark, which shows that participation in volunteering reduces loneliness and increases a sense of belonging (Statistics Denmark).
Improved quality of life and mental health
In addition to social benefits, volunteering also has a direct positive effect on mental health. The Mayo Clinic highlights that volunteering can reduce stress, anxiety and depression – especially in older people. By engaging in meaningful activities, many experience a greater zest for life and a renewed sense of purpose (Mayo Clinic).
SIND has also shown that volunteering can be an important part of the recovery process for people with mental health challenges. By participating in volunteer activities, they can experience increased energy, improved self-confidence and a sense of hope for the future. (NCBI)
Scientific evidence for the health benefits of volunteering
Research confirms that volunteering can have a direct impact on health. A systematic review of 28 studies concluded that volunteering is associated with lower mortality and improved physical functioning. This shows that volunteering has not only a psychological but also a physiological benefit (National Institutes of Health).
An analysis from the University of Southern Denmark also found that volunteering can lead to increased quality of life through strengthened social relationships and a sense of contributing to society. (University of Southern Denmark)
Conclusion: Volunteering creates value for both individuals and society
Volunteering is much more than just community service – it’s a source of social cohesion, personal well-being and better mental and physical health. Both Danish and international studies support that volunteering reduces loneliness, creates stronger networks and improves quality of life.
Volunteering is not only meaningful for the individual but also creates a positive impact on society as a whole. Whether it’s helping a local association, supporting vulnerable groups or contributing to a larger cause, volunteering is a path to a richer and more meaningful life.
Volunteering as a driving force in PiCC United – and in patient organizations
At PiCC United, volunteering is a central part of our work – on the board, our teams and advisory boards. We believe that real change is created by people who are passionate about the cause, which is why we build our community on engagement, collaboration and knowledge shared across professional and personal experiences.
Volunteering not only adds value to society, it also improves an individual’s quality of life. Research shows that volunteers experience increased wellbeing, stronger social bonds and a greater sense of purpose. When patients and families are actively engaged in patient involvement and healthcare policy, they contribute to solutions that are more relevant, sustainable and inclusive.
At PiCC United, we work to make volunteering easier and more accessible. Our mission is to remove barriers, create transparency and ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can take part in the work for better patient engagement and healthcare systems.
At the same time, we also help other patient organizations develop strategies on how to best work with volunteering. We share experiences, tools and solutions that can strengthen their efforts, recruitment and organization of volunteers. In this way, we create a stronger joint effort to secure the patient voice in the healthcare system.
Together we create a stronger voice for patients – because community, knowledge and volunteering go hand in hand.