Voice of the Customer: Volunteering Experiences 2025
RNIB’s latest Voice of the Customer report focuses on blind and partially sighted people’s experiences of volunteering. The research explores the motivations behind why people volunteer as well as the challenges people face when volunteering and the factors which are preventing people from taking up a volunteer role.
To help us understand more, we spoke with four audiences: RNIB volunteers with sight loss, RNIB sighted volunteers, people with sight loss who volunteer elsewhere, people who don’t currently volunteer.
We engaged with around 450 people through our survey, focus groups and 1-1 interviews, as well as drawing on comments from our online community to gather some invaluable insight.
We’d like to thank everyone who participated in our research for sharing their time and experiences with us. Your input is truly valued and is helping shape more inclusive and rewarding volunteering opportunities for everyone.
Summary
- Sight loss is a key motivator for volunteering
Blind and partially sighted volunteers often say they’re driven by a desire to improve lives and a personal connection to sight loss. They’re committed to sharing their skills and lived experience to raise awareness, foster inclusion and support others. Many choose roles and organisations that reflect their identity and values.
- Reasonable adjustments and flexible support are essential
Many non-volunteers face barriers such as accessibility concerns, lack of organisational understanding and costs. In contrast, people who receive tailored support report more inclusive, empowering experiences that encourage them to continue volunteering.
- Volunteering preferences vary
Most blind and partially sighted people prefer in-person roles for social connection and confidence-building. Others value virtual opportunities for accessibility and independence. Transport challenges and lack of mobility support remain major barriers to face-to-face volunteering.
- Volunteering with RNIB is a positive experience
Most volunteers feel supported and valued. However, prospective volunteers report limited awareness and information about where to find available opportunities.
Listen to RNIB Insight Community Manager Charlotte Jones, and RNIB Volunteer and focus group participant Grace Hill, speak to RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey about the Voice of the Customer Research Programme, and what it is like taking part in one of the focus group meetings.
If you are an organisation looking to make your volunteering opportunities more inclusive to people with sight loss, visit our Supporting Volunteers webpage.
