Retention of volunteers in the emergency services: Exploring interpersonal and group cohesion factors

Abstract

Emergency service agencies within Australia remain heavily reliant on the contribution of volunteers. As such, there is significant need for effective strategies and procedures to promote the retention of emergency service volunteer members. This study reports data from 2, 306 emergency service volunteers on interpersonal and group cohesion factors thought to enhance volunteer satisfaction and promote ongoing commitment to the agency. Results indicate that supervisor support, interactional justice, recognition, and group cohesion all significantly contributed to greater volunteer satisfaction and ongoing commitment to the agency. Findings are discussed in the light of social exchange theory,..