In response to today’s (14th February 2007)Unicef report exposing the poor level of poverty, risk and well-being of British children, Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, Executive Director of CSV, the UK’s largest volunteering and training charity said:

“What is needed is direct action by communities to tackle poverty of experience and skills that can transform the life of a child. Volunteers improve the reading age of a child in a school; support the families of children on the ‘at risk’ register and help families to run more fuel-efficient homes.

" Our experience is that volunteers’ practical help inspires parents to prepare nutritious meals on a budget and claim their rights and benefits. Citizen volunteers can provide a homework tutor, a shoulder to cry on and support for the whole family.”

Further press information: Jason Tanner, CSV Press Office on 020 7812 0038 or 07941 433598  www.csv.org.uk/press

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