A WOMAN from Bournemouth has launched a petition calling for volunteers to be given more recognition from the Department of Work and Pensions.

Patricia Elseaud, 28, who volunteers for West Howe Community Enterprise, wants to put together 10,000 signatures, to take to Downing Street in light of David Cameron’s call for a Big Society.

She said: “I’m not only speaking on behalf of West Howe Community Enterprise, but for all voluntary-led organisations.

She added: “We feel that volunteers don’t get the recognition that they deserve from the DWP, as volunteering is key to many organisations, which would collapse if the voluntary sector became unsustainable.

“I was on income support until September, when my daughter turned seven, and then changed to Job Seeker’s Allowance.

“Despite notifying the relevant authorities of my volunteering when I started, I got no acknowledgement or consideration, at all.”

She added: “I’m suggesting an allowance be put into place, to support people who want to use us as a stepping stone into paid work. How are we supposed to deliver Big Society, when society itself is plagued with red tape?”

A spokesperson for the DWP said that a national initiative had been brought in earlier this year, called Working Together, which offers claimants of Job Seekers Allowance the opportunity to volunteer whilst looking for long-term employment.

This is available on the condition that the claimant meets the criteria set by their Job Centre Plus and is a means for gaining additional valid experience to aid their employment search.

Inspiring Change is looking for volunteers to help, 01202 570077.