Voluntary groups receive cash boost

Voluntary groups received a cash boost as social justice
minister Jackie Baillie announced the first round of money from the
International Year of Volunteers small grants scheme.

Aberdeen Victim Support, Dundee Under 12’s Project and The
Border’s Samaritans were amongst the 201 groups to receive up
to £500 to promote their group to the local community and
attract volunteers.

The minister announced the scheme having met a group of
unemployed young volunteers involved in a production at the
Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Baillie said: “The Scottish executive recognises the tremendous
contribution volunteers make to our communities throughout
Scotland.”

“But there is still enormous untapped potential and I want to
encourage many more people – whatever their age, background
and ability – to take an active part in their communities,”
she added.