Argyll and Bute Council’s Youth Services is on the lookout for volunteers to help with the Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) award scheme.

The DofE is open to anyone aged between 14 and 24, and helps to prepare young people with the skills necessary for life and work. For many, the impact can be life-changing.

Urging new volunteers to come forward, the Council’s Policy Lead for Education and Lifelong Learning, Councillor Yvonne Mcneilly, said: “The DofE scheme is a wonderful way for young people to gain independence and learn new skills, and we want as many of them as possible to benefit from this opportunity.

“However, in order to do that we need people to volunteer their time. We need volunteers who can inspire young people to take part, encourage them to complete the programme and to achieve their own personal goals along the way.

"There are a variety of options for those wanting to volunteer. These include helping with admin work, teaching participants new skills, helping young people to raise money for charity, running after school clubs and so on.

“You don’t need any special qualifications to be a DofE volunteer and in return you’ll gain a great sense of achievement knowing that you’re helping young people in your community.

“By giving just a little bit of your time, you can make a real difference to young peoples’ lives. Not only that but the scheme will also enable volunteers to develop leadership skills; achieve personal goals and learn new activities.”

For more information, or to volunteer in your local area, please contact the Council’s DofE officer, Brian Smith, by emailing: brian.smith@argyll-bute.gov.uk or by calling 01631 567833.