LATE last year we launched a new volunteering campaign in conjunction with CSV - Dare to Care - Make time to help end child poverty.

I was struck by the vital difference volunteers can make to the lives of children and families living in poverty, from helping disadvantaged children with reading to volunteering in a local family support centre.

After seeing the great work these volunteers do, I wanted to thank more than 100 volunteers across the North West, who gave their time to the campaign. Their help and support has been invaluable to so many children and families living in poverty in the area.

It isn't too late for people in Lancashire to volunteer, as we are still hoping to reach our North West target of 200 by the end of February, and beyond the campaign, Barnardo's always has a number of interesting and diverse volunteering opportunities.

Volunteering is a win-win' for children and families living in poverty. They benefit directly from support, while volunteering can be an excellent way of helping families back into work and out of poverty. It is also a great way to sharpen skills and develop a CV.

For more information on the campaign, please visit the website www.daretocare.org.uk DAVID BOOKER, UK Head of Volunteering, Barnardo's.