Working in the charity sector can be incredibly rewarding, but finding the right role isn't always straightforward. There are so many options out there, with different skills and requirements needed for each role. Just like any job in today's world, charity jobs can be competitive.
Here at Get Jobs, we understand that the landscape is different; it changes every year, which is why we want to make sure that you can find us, along with the support for your next steps in your career.
What is the charity job market like in 2026?
The UK charity sector is a significant and often forgotten about major employer. NCVO's latest UK Civil Society Almanac reports that almost one million people work in the voluntary sector, representing around 3% of the UK workforce. And it’s not just the larger, well-known charities providing these employment opportunities. In fact, 80% of voluntary organisations are micro or small organisations, so there are plenty of opportunities for jobseekers to explore beyond the biggest names in the sector.
With financial pressures affecting organisations across the UK, the charity job market has also become more competitive. CharityJob's 2026 Salary Report analysed more than 55,000 charity roles posted during 2025, giving insight into the changing recruitment landscape.
So, while the charity job sector continues to face challenges, there are still plenty of opportunities for people looking to build a career in the charity sector. From fundraising and marketing to finance, charity jobs are more varied than you might think. With smaller organisations making up such a large part of the sector, broadening your job search beyond the biggest charities could also uncover opportunities that are less competitive and more closely matched to your skills. If you’re considering a charity career, 2026 could be a great time to explore what’s out there and find a role where your skills can make a meaningful difference.
What skills do you need for charity jobs?
You don't necessarily need previous charity experience to start a career in the sector. Charities need people with skills across fundraising, marketing, communications, finance, IT, administration and project management. Think about the skills you've gained in previous jobs and how they could transfer into a charity role. Your experience could be more relevant than you think.
This means it's more important than ever to make your application stand out. Before applying for any job, make sure you understand the organisation you're approaching, update your CV and prepare for the interview. Charities always appreciate it when people are genuinely passionate about their work and what they stand for. We also provide more support with interviews.
Explore Get Jobs to kickstart your career
When you've narrowed down the type of charity jobs you're looking for, why not consider volunteering? If finding a paid role in your preferred profession has been unsuccessful so far, volunteering can be a great way to get through the door, gain experience and learn more about the different jobs within an organisation.
Volunteering can also help you discover whether a particular area of the charity sector is right for you before committing to a long-term career.
At Get Jobs, we've made it easy to find your next career opportunity. Whether you're looking to continue in the field you've always worked in or you're ready for that career change, we're here to guide you in finding your next match. So, where will your journey take you next?