Did you know that the volunteering you do today could shape your voting habits in the future? Research from the University of Exeter shows that volunteering as a child can have a lasting impact on political engagement and voting trends as an adult. The study, based on data from the UK Household Longitudinal Survey, highlights how early community involvement can encourage young people to become more politically active.
What does this mean for you? Well, the research reveals that children from politically disengaged households—where there’s little discussion or involvement in politics—are less likely to volunteer. However, the study also found that three-quarters of children whose parents were politically engaged were more likely to volunteer and stay active in politics. Almost a third of these children reported their own volunteering efforts.
But here’s the exciting part: volunteering in your community can make a real difference, especially if you come from a politically disengaged household. When teenagers who had rarely volunteered in the past got involved in community work, they reported a stronger interest in politics and a greater sense of civic duty. They were more likely to vote when they reached adulthood.
Why is this important? Volunteering exposes you to political issues and institutions, introduces you to others who are politically engaged, and strengthens your connection to your community. All of these factors play a role in shaping your attitudes about political participation and voting, encouraging you to see voting as a responsibility and a way to make a difference.
So, whether you’re already volunteering or considering getting involved, remember that it’s not just about helping others—it’s about shaping your future and strengthening democracy. Volunteering today could mean you’re more likely to become an active voter tomorrow.
