VOLUNTEERS who want to work in County Durham schools next term are being urged not to be put off by paperwork.

Support organisation 2D, which covers Teesdale and the Wear Valley, fears the security process volunteers go through might be too daunting for some.

Chief officer Michele Armstrong said: "It can be a confusing, daunting process, but there are organisations to help.

"Volunteering is vital to many schools in our county and, without the work they do, many young people would not have the help and support they need.

"It's such a rewarding area of volunteering, playing a part in the future of the next generation.

"Volunteers are the behind-the-scenes heroes of classrooms and many pupils owe a debt of achievement to the supportive work they do.

"We're making it as easy as possible to take that first step and, once you've contacted us, someone will be by your side to help with the rest of the process."

Volunteers wanting to work in schools, or any other organisation, can contact a single helpline covering 11 support organisations around the county. Call 0845-270-5606 or visit the website www.shapingthecommunity.org