Group to look at young people’s volunteering

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 a set of proposals to assist
with 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 become
actively involved in their neighbourhoods there can be “huge
benefits”.

“Young people, especially those from disadvantaged
backgrounds, can build the skills, experience and confidence which
will benefit them throughout their lives and enable them to remain
involved with the community,” he said.

The Russell Commission is due to report by March 2005.