Help out if you can

A Paisley politician has called on buddies to support volunteers and the work they do in the community.

Mhairi Black was speaking ahead of Volunteers Week Scotland – which starts today – and encouraged more people to take up volunteering.

The SNP candidate for Paisley and Renfrewshire South, said: “This is an important time to celebrate the work of volunteers and the organisations that they support.”

Research from Volunteer Scotland estimates that 22 per cent of adults living in Renfrewshire – around 32,000 people – volunteer formally through an organisation or group.

These volunteers are crucial to the operation of many local groups such as Renfrewshire Foodbank and many others.

Ms Black added: “As someone who used to be a volunteer, I am aware of the huge difference that these people can make to their communities and local groups.

“Volunteering also benefits the helper themselves, giving them experience.

“Scotland’s communities would be a poorer place if we didn’t have so many people voluntarily running a wide range of organisations.

“During Volunteers’ Week Scotland I would encourage anyone with time on their hands to think about volunteering with any local group.”