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The soap stars took time off from their usual onscreen preoccupations of arguing and chatting up girls to see young volunteers debate serious topical questions and take part in a series of challenging workshops.
Impressive work
The conference also provided an opportunity to showcase some of the unique projects volunteers had worked on throughout 2008. These included the GEL project, a befriending scheme for young refugees and UK citizens; HIV peer education work; and Dawn Patrol, a pioneering initiative where schoolchildren regularly look out for their elderly neighbours.
Hollyoaks actor Anthony was impressed. He said: “The Red Cross is such a fantastic charity and we really wanted to support them. After all the bad press young people get, it’s great to see young people getting recognition for all the great work they do.”
Willing to help
Volunteer Ciara Lehane (21), already a Red Cross volunteer for five years, found the day to be something of a revelation. She reflected: “I thought I knew a fair bit about the Red Cross but I’ve learned even more today. I think it’s been a good chance for people to see how mature young people can be, and how willing they are to help others.”
Adding to the high-profile nature of the event, the Mayor of Liverpool – Steve Rotheram – also turned out to show his support. He said: “I’m so impressed with the work of the Red Cross. I really believe that without volunteers Liverpool would come to a shuddering halt – they do such great work across the city.”
Opportunities for young people
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