The Conservative Party has held a summit aimed at highlighting the role that the voluntary sector contributes to British society.

The conference examined ways of breaking down barriers "in order to realise the full potential of the charities and voluntary sector".

Over 100 charities and voluntary groups from across the country were present.

Those attending were set to examine how other countries approach the issue.

Shadow health secretary Liam Fox praised volunteers who "contribute a huge amount to British society".

"The sad fact is that volunteers seldom receive the thanks, the recognition or the support they deserve. The Conservative Party is keen to do all it can to put this right," he said.

Fox added that it is important to consider how to release the potential of charities and the voluntary sector.

"Today's summit will highlight the vital role of volunteers and consider how best to maximise the potential of charities and the voluntary sector, drawing where appropriate from practice elsewhere."

Conservative MP John Baron said that the conference was "the first stage of the process of pushing volunteerism up the political agenda".

As the party continues to develop policies for the next election, Baron predicted Conservatives would be "continuing the process".