A continental-wide accreditation scheme for those involved in the voluntary sector is to be launched this autumn, it has been revealed.

Based on the European Qualification Framework, the Environments for Learning initiative will allow those operating for environmental charities to have the skills and knowledge they learn during volunteering formally recognised, ThirdSector reports.

The scheme was developed by BTCV, in addition to six network partner organisations across Europe.

Allowing for the skills learnt in one country to be recognised in another, the initiative could help to boost the skills framework of those operating within the voluntary sector.

Anita Prosser, head of international development at BTCV, said: "This will be especially important for our younger volunteers, who often take time out before, during or after studies.

"It will also benefit those de-motivated by studying, who learn new skills in a friendly and informal setting."

Such news might be of interest to those seeking job opportunities within the voluntary sector.

Earlier this month, Dr Brian Gibbons, social justice minister for the Welsh Assembly, claimed that voluntary private is able to provide services that the private and public sectors cannot.