Involvement in volunteer work and social participation among UK Chinese

The present study examines factors affecting involvement in voluntary work and social participation among Chinese in the UK.Two hundred and eleven British Chinese participants recruited from Chinese health and community centres across the United Kingdom completed a quantitative questionnaire. The 38-item instrument consisted of four main domains: health and functioning; social functioning; volunteerism; and demographics.Findings revealed female respondents were more likely to have experience of voluntary work than their male counterparts, while those with a Bachelor's degree or above were more likely to be involved in voluntary work. Respondents who reported that significant recent local events in the UK, such as the death of Princess Diana, the UK going to war with the USA against Iraq, and the 2005 London Transport terrorist bombings, had an impact on their lives were also more likely to have experience of voluntary work. Social participation and self-focused motivations, in terms of participating in social organisations and events because of the recognition in one's career or social status, were also related to experience with voluntary work.Better understanding of the motivations and practices of British Chinese in terms of social participation and volunteerism may enable more culturally inclusive and appropriate civic participation involvement.

► The present study uses a cohort of British Chinese individuals.
► Factors affecting voluntary work and social participation are examined.
► Females were more likely to have experience of voluntary work.
► The impact of significant local events was associated with voluntary work.