Based on the Central Statistics Office's (CSO) most recent data, in April 2022, over 700,000 people—roughly 14% of the population—regularly participated in volunteer or helpful labour.

With 11% of volunteers, Dublin City and South Dublin have the lowest percentage of volunteers.

Nearly 290,000 volunteers, or 6% of the population, worked for sporting organisations. This was the biggest number of volunteers.

The second most popular places for volunteers to work were in social or charity organisations or in their local community.

Women were more likely to volunteer in their community, but men were more likely to work for a sporting group.

According to the research, the percentage of people doing volunteer or helpful labour rose with age.

Thirty-eight percent (38%) of the volunteers were in the 45–64 age range.

Over 113,000 volunteers, or about 16% of all volunteers, participated in multiple organisations or activities.

Of the younger population, approximately 30,000 persons, or 3% of youngsters under the age of 15, volunteered in at least one activity.

The first census to include a question about volunteering since 2006 was the one from 2022.

Additionally, the data reveals that nearly 25% of persons who work from home occasionally volunteer.

Time is frequently cited as the main barrier preventing people from volunteering, and the research suggests that those with more free time are more likely to do so.

But as stated by Volunteer Ireland, it's crucial to remember that not all volunteer positions require a significant time commitment.

CEO Nina Arwitz observed that a significant number of newly arrived individuals in Ireland, particularly Ukrainians and those seeking protection, expressed a strong desire to volunteer.

"People can learn English, meet friends, get involved in their new community, and create their own local network by volunteering. It's critical to keep in mind that those who choose to live in Ireland significantly enhance our communities," the speaker stated.

In addition, Ms. Arwitz noted that a lot of organisations are having trouble finding volunteers right now, and she urged them to make sure that their volunteer programmes are accessible and inclusive of everyone in the community.

"Minor adjustments can have a significant impact on recruiting a diverse pool of volunteers. For instance, paying a volunteer's bus fare to get to the organisation can enable them to volunteer even if they are unemployed or living in public assistance," the speaker continued.