A CHARITY which works with victims of crime and their families is appealing for volunteers.

Victim Support County Durham is looking for people who are willing to be trained in two areas of its work.

The charity provides volunteers who visit victims and their families at home to talk about the experience and give practical advice.

Those who volunteer for this area need to be available for at least two hours a week, although the hours can be flexible and can include weekends and evenings.

Victim Support also provides volunteers to accompany and help those who have to give evidence in court as witnesses.

Those who want to volunteer for the service will be fully trained and have to work under the supervision of co-ordinators.

To volunteer for the witness service, people must be available on weekdays for at least two full days a month.

The services provided by the charity are free and available to everyone.

Victim Support is looking for people, aged 18 and over, who are understanding and good listeners and who can get on with people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds.

Anyone can apply and no previous experience of helping victims of crime is necessary.

People who are interested are asked to contact Claire Boshier, at Victim Support, on (01325) 319263 or Clare Sandford, of the Witness Service on (01325) 307596.