A COMMUNITY group is looking for volunteers who can spare some time to sit with frail or elderly people to give their carer a break.

St John’s Community Centre, in Catterick Garrison, runs a Sitting Scheme to support carers who often get very little time to run errands or have any time to themselves.

Volunteers must be over 18, reliable, friendly and caring and must undergo an enhanced disclosure CRB check.

Project co-ordinator Isobel Penman said: “We currently have 20 volunteers that support the Sitting Service but more are desperately needed to cover increasing demand, particularly in the upper Dales where there is a waiting list.

“Our volunteers are wonderful committed individuals from varying backgrounds who willingly give their time, anything from two to five hours, either weekly, fortnightly or on a monthly basis. We are particularly keen to have more male volunteers.

“There are many, many carers throughout the Richmondshire area who unselfishly care for their relatives 24 hours a day, seven days a week and a break, however small, is very beneficial for their well being. It’s not just the carer who benefits from the visits, the person who is cared for also looks forward to volunteer visits.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or any carer who feels they would benefit from the Sitting Scheme can contact mS Penman on 01748-832271 or email ip.stjohnscentre@btinternet.com