HAMPSHIRE residents looking to make a positive difference are being encouraged to volunteer some time to support a vulnerable child.

During Volunteers Week, which runs between June 1 to June 7, Hampshire County Council is inviting people to join its Innovation Volunteers service, which supports children, and young people across the county.

Peter, who has been volunteering as a mentor for more than four years, said: “For me, all the young people that I’ve been working with have had such great potential and it’s incredibly rewarding to work with them and try and develop their confidences, talents and strengths.

"They’ve got great characters. It’s just a fantastic thing to get involved in.”

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Innovation Volunteers must be aged 18 and over and will receive full training, ongoing support and supervision. No previous experience is needed.

Cllr Edward Heron, the county council's cabinet lead member for children’s services, said: “Our volunteering roles provide a unique opportunity to support vitally important work in children’s services and to make a valuable difference to the lives of vulnerable children and their families.

"There are many rewarding opportunities on offer that can each help to shape families’ lives for the better while boosting your own skills and experience.

"I would urge anyone looking to give something back, to get in touch with our team to further explore the roles available.”

Volunteering roles fall into six categories, each designed to suit different interests and to work around volunteers’ other commitments.

To find out more, go to Innovation Volunteers or contact innovation.volunteers@hants.gov.uk.