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The government has set up a special group to look at ways of increasing the number of young people who do voluntary work.

The Russell Commission will work in partnership with voluntary groups and businesses and will compile proposals to assist the government’s National Youth Volunteering Strategy. It will be headed by Ian Russell, chief executive of ScottishPower.

Home secretary David Blunkett said that when young people became involved in their neighbourhoods there could be "huge benefits" for both communities and young people’s skills and confidence.

The Russell Commission is due to report by March 2005.