Army of volunteers is now more vital than ever

OF ALL the attributes that Scotland has to see it through this recession and its deadly impact on the public finances, there is none greater than the voluntary sector and in particular those who give freely of their time and skills.

It is an asset of colossal importance and one that reaches and touches the lives of many that the formal apparatus of government cannot reach. In many instances, it is also the more caring and tender touch.

Scotland's army of volunteer workers – ...