PRIME Minister Tony Blair has given a Bolton scheme helping the homeless, an official pat on the back.

The Government leader has sent his special congratulations to workers and volunteers of the Bolton Bond Board.

The pioneering project, which has its headquarters in Great Moor Street, was set up six years ago to find private rented accommodation for as many homeless people as possible.

In May organisers of the group celebrated housing their 2,000th person, providing rent deposits to secure housing.

Volunteers also provide extra support and care to people who have been found homes with the Board.

And Now Mr Blair has recognised the work which the Bond Board has been involved in.

In a letter to the group he states that the group is "providing invaluable help to homeless people in Bolton."

And he saved special praise for the band of volunteers who help out.

Writing about their work he said it "helps those people socially excluded by their circumstances to return to their communities."

Wonderful

Colm O'Brien, accommodation support worker at Bolton Bond Board, said: "It is wonderful that the work of our volunteers has recieved this attention.

"The work which they do is demanding and challenging. They don't just look at a person's problems, they try to help people to work towards solutions in many areas of their lives. The service offered is of a very high standard. It is right that this should be praised."

And now the Bond Board is on the hunt for even more volunteers to help out. A special induction course is due to take place in coming weeks.

Anyone who wants more information about the Board, or who may want to become a volunteer, should contact 01204 366328.

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