Women's Aid charity on the look-out for local volunteers

A spokesperson for the group said it had a number of volunteering opportunities available, both during the day and evening, for local women with time to spare. Training will be provided.

“Volunteers are vital in providing services such as a crche, to allow for mums to attend classes or courses,” explained Women’s Aid Volunteer Co-ordinator, Gillian Forrest.

“The childcare team, supported by volunteers, also provides group and individual work for children and young people.

“Volunteers are needed to provide court support for women, with the opportunity to gain OCN accreditation in this area at Level 3, following three months of active volunteering in the role.

“The Reconnect Project is aimed at providing regular social interaction for women living with the longer term effects of domestic violence and who may have become isolated from friends, family and other social networks.

“Volunteers are urgently needed to assist and support this very beneficial service, and anyone considering volunteering is asked to get in touch.”

Gillian stressed that volunteers themselves have much to gain from the experience, with now as good time as any for those who may be considering taking up the challenge - even if they have never volunteered before.

“Many mums will have children going to school in September and may find some spare time they didn’t have previously. Likewise, many women may wish to develop their existing skills base and work experience during a time of economic uncertainty,” she said.

“Whatever the motivation, we find that volunteers tend to enjoy the experience and they are greatly valued. Women’s Aid could not provide the range of services to women, children and young people without the input of volunteers.”

Meanwhile, existing Women’s Aid volunteer Claire Jamieson said: “I love volunteering and would recommend anyone with something to give - such as a skill or spare time, to consider it.

“I have gained a major confidence boost, met lots of new people and also improved my CV, helping me to gain the career I would like.

“There are so many opportunities available to volunteers and you get such satisfaction giving something back to the community.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer is asked to contact Leanne on Tel: 028 2563 2136 or email: [email protected] for an application form and volunteer pack. Closing date for applications is Friday, August 27.

Women’s Aid Antrim, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Larne and Newtownabbey (ABCLN) is an organisation which provides support, information, advice and where necessary - accommodation, for women who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. The 24-Hour Free-phone Domestic Violence Helpline 0800 917 1414 is available to all victims of domestic violence.