Responding to Gordon Brown’s speech at today’s "Britain's Everyday Heroes" event, Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, Executive Director of UK volunteering and training charity, CSV, said:

“We welcome his plan to increase recognition for volunteers on the honours list following our ten year campaign. We look forward to the inclusion of the contribution of volunteers in the calculation of the Gross Domestic Product.

“His continuing commitment to involving young people is powerful but progress needs equal efforts to open the doors of our hospitals, social services, police, fire and rescue services and schools to harness youthful knowledge and experience. CSV’s Action Network with the BBC has this week galvanised over 3000 volunteers to respond to the plight of flooded Sheffield residents.

“The £85 million earmarked for training should include modules for doctors, social workers, teachers, police and other professionals to understand the potential of volunteer citizens to lengthen and strengthen their services.”

Further press information: Jason Tanner or Paul Donohoe on 020 7812 0038 / 07941 433598

Notes for editors

1. CSV (Community Service Volunteers) creates opportunities for people to take an active part in the life of their communities through volunteering, training and community action. Last year 227,000 people gave 5 million hours of their time as volunteers through CSV. CSV trains 12,705 people of all ages. www.csv.org.uk

2. Response to speech made by Prime Minister Gordon Brown at the "Britain's Everyday Heroes" Book Launch  http://www.number-10.gov.uk/output/Page12600.asp  (Tuesday 24th July 2007).