Those working as volunteers make an important contribution towards society, it has been reported.

Speaking at the launch of Volunteers Week, Margaret Ritchie, social development minister in Northern Ireland, stated that volunteers for charities and community group across the region play a crucial role in the development of society.

In addition, she claimed that as working as volunteers - and in particular young people - can improve their skills and confidence levels.

She said: "Volunteering has a profound effect on us all; on our children, our families and our friends. It is a cornerstone of our society and the lifeblood of our communities."

Ms Ritchie added that she is to do more to encourage numbers of volunteers in the months to come and providing "new and better experiences" for such people operating within the third sector.

Such news may be of interest to those seeking work in the voluntary industry via a regional recruitment portal.

In April the UK Workforce Hub released a new National Occupational Standards document offering advice to those working in the third sector looking to improve their skills and knowledge in the workplace.

More regional recruitment portal information.