Private companies are witnessing a damaging brain drain to the public and charity sectors, according to a new study from workplace communications consultancy CHA.

The younger the worker the more likely they are to consider crossing over spurred on by what they see as socially or environmentally more valuable work.

Over 40% of 18-25-year-olds polled for the study, Worthwhile Work, say they are considering a move into the public or charity sectors as do 38% of 26-35-year-olds. The study calls on private sector employers to be clearer about profitable business’s wider benefit to society in delivering goods and services as well as in contributing to the exchequer.

Almost half of respondents are hankering after a more worthwhile and respondents say that employers are failing to communicate the beneficial purpose of their organisation and the role of individual employees in helping them to achieve that purpose.

The study revealed that the priorities for employees under 35 are twofold, contributing to society and a job they can do well. For 26-35-year-olds a third important ingredient is a job they can be proud of for their own sake. For their younger colleagues salary comes third.

Over 70% of respondents say that private companies’ efforts on climate change and social responsibility help strengthen their reputation. Top of the corporate responsibility list come local community support followed by reducing impact on climate change. Corporate donations to charity trail a poor third.

Over all, a third of employees working in the private sector are contemplating a move into the public or charity sectors – half of those intending to do so in the next five years.