More young volunteers wanted

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.