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| GOVERNMENT
BOOST FOR EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEERING SCHEMES |
26/01/04 |
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Stephen
Timms, the Minister for Corporate Social Responsibility, has called for
more companies to get involved in volunteering in the workplace.
The boost came at a gathering of 30 leading companies hosted by CSV, the
UK's largest volunteering and training charity.
During his speech, Timms said: "People want to be addressing social and
environmental challenges in the context of their work. They don't want to
inhabit a kind of split world where in one part of their lives they keep
their heads down and make a living while in the other they care about what
is happening around them.
"They want the whole of their lives to be marked by responsibility,
and employee volunteering provides the chance to make that a reality.
"Businesses have a lot to gain through stronger relationships with
the community and voluntary groups; a better reputation, higher local profile,
greater staff motivation, and the development of new skills and a fresh
perspective on the part of the volunteer.
"Research has shown that two in three business leaders across Europe believe
that responsible business practice can promote innovation within their organisation
by increasing learning from outside, and promoting a broader perspective
within the organisation. And innovation is key to success in the contemporary
economy."
The government has set a target of increasing voluntary sector activity,
including increasing community participation, by 5% by 2006. A major challenge
is to increase the number of placements available for employees of the public
sector.
Dame Elisabeth Hoodless, DBE, Executive Director of CSV said: "Research
shows that 11m people are waiting to be asked to volunteer. If this volunteer
energy is not to be wasted, then 11m opportunities are needed.
"Our public services unquestionably need strengthening. Sadly, training
for professionals in local government, the National Health Service, police,
probation and housing services does not yet include collaborating with volunteers,
how to identify opportunities or how to work with people who offer their
time freely."
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