Bradford Council's volunteering unit is recruiting volunteers to help improve life for children in foster care and community homes.

The new scheme is an extension to its independent visitor scheme, putting caring helpers in touch with young children in local care.

Potential volunteers must have one day to spare once a fortnight and be able to offer long-term support to young people who may live some distance from Bradford. Also all volunteers must be over 21.

A member of the unit explained that the role of the volunteer was to be a friend, listening and advising where necessary. Some of the children have experienced much disappointment from adults and are in need of this one-to-one support to regain trust.

The time spent will be mostly at weekends, often enjoying leisure activities such as eating out, cinema etc.

Volunteers will receive out-of-pocket expenses and a £20.00 payment for each visit.

For further detail call Mr Grisag on 01274 757970.