SIR: You report that Bolton Resource Centre is protesting against plans to introduce a 'work for Benefit' scheme.

We in Community Transport depend on benefit reciprocates working as unpaid volunteers. Wonderful people. Not only do they help Bolton's needy with furniture requirements and outings, but I believe the work helps them. They learn new skills, how to relate to people, working to a routine, responsibility (our motto is "Reliability is more important than ability"). Above all, they regain self respect. As one said: "They re-learn life's skills." It does your heart good to see the improvements in their attitude to life after a period with us. Most move on to paid work.

The work we ask them to do is skilled and needs a friendly, conscientious nature. We welcome volunteers, but they would not want pressed workers with a chip on their shoulders.

Under the proposed scheme, even more pressure would be put on our volunteers, and we would probably fold. What is required is for the benefit regulations to be changed to encourage volunteers to help voluntary organisations. We do not want forced labour.

George K Brown, Treasurer

Bolton Community Transport

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