Barriers to volunteering for marginalised groups: first nations peoples, newly arrived migrants and people with disability
20/06/2024
Publication date: July 2023
By: The University of Canberra and Aman Consulting PTY Ltd
Access full report: https://www.volunteeringvictoria.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Barriers-to-Volunteering-for-First-Nations-Peoples-Newly-Arrived-Migrants-and-People-with-Disability.pdf
The research paper explores the challenges and barriers faced by marginalised groups in participating in volunteering activities. The study aims to identify the obstacles preventing First Nations peoples, newly arrived migrants, and people with disabilities from engaging in volunteer work.
The research methodology involved a mixed-methods approach, combining literature reviews, surveys, and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data. Quantitative surveys were distributed among individuals from the target groups to assess their experiences, perceptions, and barriers to volunteering. Qualitative interviews provided deeper insights into the lived experiences and specific challenges faced by marginalised individuals.
The research reveals some important common themes across the three marginalised groups:
- Lack of awareness and access to volunteering opportunities. Many individuals from these groups reported limited knowledge about available volunteer roles and how to get involved, hindering their participation.
- Presence of systemic barriers and discrimination within volunteer organizations. Participants described encountering prejudice, stereotypes, and inaccessible environments that made it difficult for them to engage in volunteering activities.
- Practical barriers such as transportation issues, financial constraints, and caregiving responsibilities that disproportionately affect the ability for marginalised individuals to volunteer.
The study underscores the importance of addressing structural barriers and fostering inclusive environments within volunteer organizations. Volunteer managers should prioritize initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of volunteering opportunities among marginalised groups and removing systemic barriers to participation.
The research emphasizes the need for tailored support and flexibility to accommodate the needs of individuals from marginalised backgrounds so they can engage in volunteering activities. Volunteer managers should strive to create accessible and welcoming environments, provide flexible opportunities, and offer support services to address the practical challenges faced by marginalised volunteers.