Letter: Hard work for Christmas volunteers

Sir: Crisis certainly does not wish to snub any of its volunteers (letter, 31 December) and indeed values their support enormously. We could not run any of our services without them.

Crisis was quoted in the article which prompted the letter (23 December) as noting that volunteers need to have realistic expectations of what the work involves. This we stand by - volunteering can be hard work, physically and emotionally. New volunteers must be aware of this for their sake as much as for our clients' sakes. However, we certainly don't question people's motives for volunteering. Nor do we ask for a lifetime's commitment.

I hope potential volunteers have not been put off. Volunteering can be hugely rewarding for all concerned and is often more vital than money in enabling a service to go ahead.

BERRY RANCE

Head of Project Development

Crisis

London E1