Young people encouraged to volunteer

Young people will be encouraged to volunteer in their community following today's launch of the Youth Community Action programme.

The Department for Children, Schools and Families has combined with V, the National Young Volunteers' service to launch the scheme which will involve youngsters aged 14 to 16 in activities to benefit their communities and increase their skills.

The programme will see advisors from V visit schools to work with children on volunteering projects.

Terry Ryall, Chief Executive of v, commented: "We're passionate about encouraging lifelong community action and our research and experience shows that young people who have volunteered are more likely to do so again. Our unique assets, infrastructure and experience make us ideally placed to deliver this new programme. As The National Young Volunteers Service, v has already created over 900,000 opportunities for young people."

More than 100 schools advisors will begin work this month.

David Cameron today announced Conservative plans to introduce a national citizen service for 16 year olds if they win the election.