For some, adapting to life after work can be a challenge. We all like to think that freedom from the nine-to-five routine will be liberating, but in fact it can actually be a source of anxiety and even depression. There are, however, ways of continuing to contribute to the economy, and boosting your own wellbeing, by working in the third sector.
Dynamic Opportunities
For some there is a certain stigma attached to working in this voluntary sector, that somehow it’s not “proper” work. In fact the third sector can be a vibrant, dynamic area for growth, fulfilling key functions across communities and acting as a bulwark against the effects of austerity.
There is a whole generation of people ready to use the skills acquired through years of working full-time to do useful voluntary or part-time work. These are people who have professional, creative and organisational experience.
The range of opportunities is getting wider in the voluntary sector; it’s not restricted to pottering about in charity shops or making the tea. Third sector work can include: working for charities, or even starting your own charity; starting a social enterprise business; mentoring and tutoring; community service; and microfinance.
The NCVO, National Council for Voluntary Organisations, estimates that the voluntary sector contributes over £11.5 billion to the UK economy, based on gross value added (GVA). It’s a significant sector to be involved in.
Changing the View on Volunteering
There is another key side to this: what charitable and voluntary organisations should be wanting from their volunteers.
The baby-boomer generation is now the retirement generation, and many
of them have very different expectations to preceding generations of older people. For volunteering to escape becoming under-valued, it needs to be able to appeal to this group and allow them to exploit their skills effectively in the third sector.
People in 60s and 70s age groups are active and have skills they’re ready to use. They don’t wish to simply be occupied in dutiful roles; they want to engage with the world and play a meaningful role. Third sector groups should be looking at this generational shift in attitudes as a clear opportunity for growth and increasing their already substantial contribution to the economy.
