A NEW service for County Durham's disabled residents is appealing for volunteers.

An advocacy service being launched by Spiral Skills helps involve disabled people in decisions affecting their lives.

Volunteers known as Citizen Advocates help each person to make their views known, access the services they need and protect their human rights.

Advocacy co-ordinator Susan Newson said that experience was not necessary, adding: "Just as important are good listening skills, concern about human rights, a belief in a fairer society and confidence about challenging the accepted view of things."

Volunteers are trained and supported and receive generous expenses.

Contact Susan Newson or Lee Wyman at Spiral Skills in Salters House, Sedgefield, or telephone (01740) 625225.