The research, carried out by the Behavioural Insights Team – known as the Nudge unit – on behalf of the Cabinet Office, found the skills of young people aged 10 to 20 significantly improved after taking part in activities such as campaigning, fundraising and volunteering.
A series of randomised control trials of young people taking part in social action programmes in three areas of England measured an uplift of between six and 16 per cent when compared with a non-participating group.
The trials measured six life skills including levels of empathy, grit and resilience, co-operation, problem solving, sense of community and educational attitudes.
In addition, levels of anxiety reduced by more than a fifth in one group of young people that participated in youth social action, with participants' wellbeing also showing improvements.
The results also suggested that participation in youth social action increases the willingness to be involved in community-related activities in later life.
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