The grants will focus on two key areas: developing volunteer involving strategies that enable organisations to increase the amount of opportunities for young people; and providing examples of best practice, particularly within organisations working with BME groups, disabled people, faith groups and those without qualifications.

It is hoped the grants will further develop knowledge and understanding of young volunteers and enable voluntary organisations to take the steps necessary to deliver the Russell Commission recommendations.
However, they are not designed to fund volunteering opportunities for young people. This will be the role of the new Russell Commission Implementation Body, which is to be formally launched in spring 2006.

Chief executive of Scottish Power, Ian Russell, who headed up the commission, said: “Building on existing expertise in involving young volunteers was the guiding principle of my Commission’s report and existing voluntary organisations will play a key role in the delivery of the framework for youth action and engagement.

" These grants will enable voluntary organisations, both nationally and locally, to inform the work of the new charity and also help to equip them to get ready to deliver the framework for youth action and engagement.”

For further details or to apply visit www.russellcommission.org.uk, email info@grantsadmin.co.uk or call the grants helpline on 0845 603 1869.