UK: Volunteering week launched in Northern Ireland

Social Development Minister for Northern Ireland Margaret Ritchie has praised the contribution made by volunteers throughout Northern Ireland as she officially launched 2008?s ?Volunteers Week?.

Speaking at the event in Parliament Buildings the Minister said: ?It is appropriate as we mark the start of Volunteer?s Week that we acknowledge the outstanding work of volunteers. Volunteering has a profound effect on us all; on our children, our families and our friends. It is a cornerstone of our society and the lifeblood of our communities. Every year thousands of people give their time and energy to help others. There is no doubt that they are all making a real difference to the lives of people across Northern Ireland.

?Of course, volunteering also brings many benefits to those giving up their time. It builds skills and confidence which is so important for our young people and those seeking to better their job prospects, it increases our circle of friends which is helpful for older people and those that feel isolated, and it also provides a real sense of satisfaction and achievement – as well, of course, as being great fun!?

The Volunteer Development Agency are using Volunteer Week to launch their new leaflet, ?Volunteer ? Play your part?, which gives up to date information about how to become involved in volunteering. Minister Ritchie said:
?I want to encourage the growth of volunteering and provide new and better experiences for volunteers. I therefore welcome this new leaflet and am especially pleased that versions are being printed in Polish, Portuguese, Lithuanian, Cantonese and Urdu. This reflects the inclusiveness of volunteering and the increasingly diverse makeup of our society.

?I will be volunteering myself during Volunteer?s Week which I am really looking forward to, and would encourage others, where possible to consider giving their time to this very worthwhile activity.?