Public services must embrace the positive impact of volunteers in reducing crime, improving health and protecting children more than ever, according to Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, Executive Director of UK volunteering charity CSV. The call comes on the eve of Dame Elisabeth’s retirement in February after more than 47 years of leadership in the sector.

CSV is preparing to write to the commissioners of Children’s and Adult services and the Criminal Justice system to encourage a step-change in involving citizens in the delivery of their work.

Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, Executive Director of CSV (Community Service Volunteers) said:

“Looking forward to the New Year, there are major challenges ahead. The government shares CSV’s vision of significant roles for volunteers in public services - in hospitals, social services departments, general practice, libraries, education and prisons. With youth unemployment particularly high it is vital that the nation taps into the energy and enthusiasm that young people can bring to these services and to protect and enhance the opportunities for them to volunteer full and part-time.

“CSV remains committed to involving citizens in the public services in order to improve the quality, availability and range of services. Public authorities must make their own decisions about how best to deploy their resources. Once they have implemented those decisions, CSV is always keen to discuss opportunities for volunteers to serve and add value to the work of paid staff.

“However, at a time when all these services are facing redundancies, staff are naturally concerned about their futures and the concept of including volunteers is naturally surrounded by suspicion and anxiety. CSV does not provide volunteers to replace staff but is always keen to engage where realistic support is available.”

Further press information: Jason Tanner 07941 433598 or Francesca Toma on 020 7812 0037.

Notes for editors

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 165,666 people gave their time as volunteers through CSV. The charity trained 13,423 people of all ages. www.csv.org.uk

Lucy de Groot, Independent Chair of Children’s Services Improvement Board, has been appointed the new Chief Executive of UK volunteering and training charity, CSV.