Two Hours to Change a Life: Millions of Brits Ready to Volunteer in 2026

By Community Correspondent

Almost half of UK adults say they are likely to volunteer in 2026, according to a new poll from leading end-of-life charity Marie Curie.

The survey found that 47% of adults plan to give their time to good causes in the next year, showing a strong appetite across the country to give something back to local communities.

However, the findings also reveal why many people still struggle to step forward. Half of respondents (50%) said a lack of time is the biggest barrier to volunteering. Concerns about the level of commitment required were cited by 22%, while 18% admitted they are unsure how to get involved. A further 17% said they are not aware of opportunities in their local area.

Among those who already volunteer, the benefits are clear.

More than half (56%) say giving back to their community inspires them, while 49% say it gives them a sense of pride and purpose. Social connection also plays an important role, with 38% saying they volunteer to meet people and feel part of something bigger.

The research highlights generational differences in what would encourage people to sign up. Overall, short-term opportunities and flexible hours are the strongest drivers, with 26% of people saying each would make them more likely to volunteer.

Gen Z respondents are particularly motivated by the chance to volunteer with friends or family, with 32% saying this would encourage them to take part.

Millennials are most influenced by flexible hours that fit around work and family life, while Gen X are more likely to volunteer for short-term or one-off opportunities.

Across all age groups, the primary motivation remains the desire to give something back, closely followed by the sense of purpose and pride volunteering provides.

In light of the findings, Marie Curie is encouraging people to donate just a couple of hours to collect for its annual Great Daffodil Appeal this March.

The average collection shift lasts around two hours and is often carried out in pairs at local supermarkets, offering a flexible way for people to support the cause.

In 2025, 6,642 volunteers helped raise more than £1.2 million through the Great Daffodil Appeal. The charity says that just a two-hour collection can raise around £85 — enough to help fund almost four hours of expert nursing care or five calls to its free national Support Line for people facing terminal illness and their loved ones.

Now in its 40th year, the Great Daffodil Appeal continues to be a vital fundraiser.

The charity relies on public donations and fundraising efforts to provide palliative and end-of-life care across the UK.

Last year, supporters helped Marie Curie deliver direct care to more than 42,000 people through its hospices and specialist nursing services in people’s homes, while its Support Line offered practical information and emotional support more than 21,000 times.

To find out more about how you can sign up to collect for the Great Daffodil Appeal this March and help Marie Curie provide more expert care and support, visit: https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer