The Media Trust is holding the first "speedmatching" event to pair 20 charities with journalists prepared to use their professional skills for voluntary work.

It will be at Channel 4's headquarters in London on September 28.

The free evening event is an addition to the Media Trust's online matching service, partnering charities that want assistance with relevant professionals keen to give their time and skills for free.

The event will work on the same principle as speeddating with the journalists having five minutes with each charity.

Janine Ellingham, the Media Trust's matching manager, said: "It will bring everyone together in a fun and informal way. This is a great opportunity for anyone thinking of doing some voluntary work to get involved."

The Media Trust is a registered charity. Its online matching service has arranged more than 800 successful pairings since it began in April 2002, ranging from help for a one-off event to ongoing collaboration.

The help can be given face-to-face or by e-mail.

To book a place or for further information e-mail janinee@mediatrust.org or dominico@mediatrust.org or call 020 7874 7606.

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