entrica has become the first UK energy company to sign up to a new national push to expand workplace volunteering, joining the 100 Million Hour Movement led by Royal Voluntary Service (RVS).

The campaign, launched in April 2026, aims to double the number of employee volunteering hours to 100 million by the end of 2028, responding to pressures on communities and workplaces, including a 3 million volunteer shortfall and declining morale at work.

Mike Shaw, British Gas volunteer, said: "What I enjoy most about volunteering is seeing the difference it makes first-hand. Being able to use the skills I've developed in my day job to help people in a community we know well is incredibly rewarding."

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By signing the pledge, Centrica joins organisations including The Berkeley Foundation, Mitie, Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation, Browne Jacobson and Coventry Building Society. Supporters commit to three core actions designed to increase participation:

- Lead by example, with visible backing for volunteering from senior leaders

- Open up opportunities to more colleagues

- Remove barriers so it’s easy for employees to take part

At Centrica, every colleague receives two paid volunteering days annually through its community programme, The Big Difference. Activities range from energy support pop-ups with the British Gas Energy Trust, to inspiring pupils through the Get Set for Positive Energy schools programme with Team GB, and helping families via The Multibank. Since 2019, staff have delivered more than 42,000 volunteering days, and the company is on track to reach its target of donating 100,000 days by 2030. Volunteering also helps employees build skills, strengthen connections and feel greater pride in supporting customers and communities.

Chris O'Shea, CEO, Centrica said: "It's so important that companies are an active player in the communities they serve. At Centrica we encourage our colleagues to volunteer by giving paid time off to volunteer in our communities. I’m so proud of how much good work our amazing colleagues do."