Good Morning NW needs you

Set up in 2002 to help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness felt by older people, the group is keen to hear from would-be volunteers from the Waterside to swell the ranks.

"We need about 15 more volunteers. We already have about 14 and we need that number because volunteers don't work full-time. We need people to work from 9am to 2pm just for a few hours. Really we need people to provide coverage for all the hours we operate and we are looking for caring friendly individuals," said Eileen Jeffries, volunteer co-ordinator.

"This work is really suited to people in the retired age group because anyone doing this work will be talking to people in the older age group and we find that students are very very good. A lot of the students need to do voluntary work if they are on care courses or any other kind of health related course, and this is very good community-based experience for them as well. This also suits unemployed people because this can enhance their CV," said Eileen.

"This is a very vital service for the people who use it. The people that we phone are very elderly and most live on their own, so this is a real contact for them, in fact, sometimes this is the only contact those people will have in their day. If they have any problems with regard to heal, social housing or whatever, then we can help sort it out," she said.

Applicants will go through a simple screening process to ensure their suitability, which will involve a background check. It means people will be asked to complete a form and declare any convictions.

Prospective volunteers do not necessarily need access to a car or need a driving licence.

Anyone who feels that they want to know more can telephone Eileen and her team on 028 7135 3694.