Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, Executive Director of CSV, the UK’s largest volunteering and training charity said:

“CSV welcomes new thinking on empowering volunteers whose contribution to society is rarely recognised. 

“The challenge of such a voucher scheme would be the likelihood that donkey sanctuaries and cancer research would benefit hugely. However, much needed volunteer support for mental health service users, young offenders, abused children and frail older people might suffer as a result.

“The administrative cost might well exceed the funds available. More discussion might be helpful.”

Dated: 16th January 2007

Further press information: Jason Tanner, CSV Head of Press on 020 7812 0038 / 07941 433598