Befrienders - do you need one? Could you be one?

Befriender Anne Kohler (left) enjoys a cup of tea and a chat with Hull resident Jenny Thompson.

Volunteers are needed to help with a befriending scheme that will benefit vulnerable, elderly and housebound residents this Christmas and beyond.
The scheme aims to help such residents through organising visits to their homes by volunteers known as 'befrienders' who will call in for a cup of tea and chat.
"For people who live alone and need company this could be an invaluable service, especially at Christmas time," says John Marshall, Head of Community Services at The Goodwin Development Trust.
The befriending scheme was originally started by the Hull Community Wardens, but it is now hoped that more volunteers will come forward and offer support.
"We have 20 volunteers so far but we are aiming for 40," adds Mr Marshall.
"Full training will be given so it may lead to employment or further training and education opportunities for the volunteers who take part."
The scheme is being piloted until March 2008 in the West, Wyke and Riverside areas of the city.
"If it's successful, we hope to extend it to other areas of the city and continue beyond March 2008," says Cllr Stephen Baker, who has responsibility for adult care in the city.
"It's a tremendous idea for any time of the year, especially at Christmas, and I hope the scheme reaches the people who need it most."

To volunteer all you need is two spare hours a week. For more details, or if you yourself would like to use the service, please call 609118 or visit www.goodwintrust.org