The nationally representative poll, conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Oxfam, highlights strong demand for face-to-face interaction and more meaningful ways to spend time.
The poll shows that:
- More than 8 in 10 (82%) people in Scotland believe society has become more fragmented, with people less connected with each other.
- A significant majority of people (84%) think volunteering in charity shops can help bring people together in a disconnected world.
- 3 in 5 (60%) say they personally would like to feel closer to a community or group.
- Over a third (37%) say being part of a friendly team would encourage them to volunteer, with (32%) of respondents saying having a reason to get out and about, and 30% saying meeting people and feeling less isolated, would encourage them to volunteer.
- 62% say volunteering would help maintain a sense of purpose, 56% say it would help provide routine and structure and over half (52%) say volunteering would help them build new social connections during big life transitions.
- Over three-quarters (78%) believe more people should seek out volunteering opportunities during retirement.
Oxfam Scotland says its network of 40 shops across Scotland is already helping bring people together – offering a place to connect, contribute and feel part of something bigger. They’re places where communities come to discover unique finds, support the circular economy, and give quality items a second chance.
Claire Rowland, Oxfam’s Volunteering Coordinator in Scotland, said: “People are telling us they feel cut off, caught in a cycle of scrolling rather than connecting. And at the same time, many are looking out at a world in turmoil, from conflict to climate crises, and wondering where they fit in.
“It can feel overwhelming. But right across Scotland, in our shops, something different is happening. Volunteering brings people together. It builds friendships, boosts confidence, and gives people a sense of purpose that’s hard to find elsewhere. At the same time, every shift helps raise vital funds to support people facing poverty and crisis around the world.
“In a world that can feel increasingly fragmented, this is about real connection; people showing up, side by side, and being part of something bigger than themselves.”
In Lochee, 76-year-old Barbara Myloff retired from her job at Lochee Library one week and began volunteering at her local Oxfam shop the next, continuing a legacy that began when her mother opened the city’s very first Oxfam shop in 1967.
Now Barbara works weekly shifts and describes her Saturday team affectionately as “the Saturday morning geriatrics.” There’s laughter. There’s homemade cake. There’s community. And there’s commitment.
Over the years, Barbara estimates she has raised thousands of pounds for Oxfam through shop volunteering, fundraising and walking mile after mile in sponsored challenges. She’s completed the Kiltwalk. She’s tackled 10-mile routes. She’s planning more.
“I don’t have a lot of money,” she says. “But I can give my time.”
Barbara’s motivation, she says, is simple: “In this country, you turn on the tap and you get clean water. You have a flushing toilet. The wee things that we take for granted.”
She watches the news from Gaza and Sudan. She sees mothers struggling to keep their children alive.
“That’s why I keep going,” she says. “You have to think about the bigger picture.”
Every shift in the shop. Every bag sorted. Every item sold. It all adds up.
“It’s camaraderie, it’s community. It gives you purpose to your life, and you know you’re doing good.”
Barbara’s story reflects what many volunteers experience, that in giving their time, they gain connection, confidence and community in return.
With Oxfam shops in communities across Scotland, the charity is encouraging anyone feeling disconnected to consider volunteering – whether for a few hours a week or more.
Oxfam’s Claire Rowlands added: “Volunteering isn’t about having lots of spare time or experience. It’s about taking that first step. You might come in to help others – but what you find is connection, community and a sense of personal belonging.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 1000 nationally representative Scottish consumers. The data was collected between 20.03.2026-26.03.2026. Censuswide is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the British Polling Council (BPC), and a signatory of the Global Data Quality Pledge. We adhere to the MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles
- Oxfam has a network of 40 shops in Scotland. To find out more about volunteering, visit: https://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer-with-us/
