A CHARITY which helps couples and families in crisis urgently needs help itself.

Lancashire Relate has seen a 10 per cent rise this year in the number of clients having counselling - more than 1,100 people since January.

But it desperately needs volunteer receptionists at its Blackburn and Burnley sites. Lancashire Relate also has smaller offices in Nelson and Rawtenstall, from where volunteers have had to go Blackburn to cover the shortages.

Relate is required to have volunteers under its charity rules. Offices can cost £40,000 each to run. Volunteers help keeps costs down and let counsellors concentrate on couples' problems. Receptionists welcome clients, take their cash contributions, manage diaries and act as chaperons.

Offices manager Viki Cuthbertson said: "We currently have four receptionists at Blackburn and eight at Burnley. We need between eight and 12 more at Blackburn, or we'll have to reduce our opening hours.

"Receptionists are vital and counsellors cannot work without them. Without the help of them, Relate wouldn't be able to provide vital services to families in crisis.

"It's not clear why there's been a 10 per cent rise in people wanting help, but it may be because there's less stigma in getting counselling. The divorce rate hasn't risen.

"We deal with all sorts of things including domestic violence, mental health, bereavement, sexual problems and financial worries. So we really hope people will help us."

Receptionists usually work once or twice a month. They receive full training and have their travel expenses reimbursed.

One Blackburn office user, Sarah, said her relationship was saved by Relate, saying: "Counselling helped to put matters in perspective and talk more openly with my partner."

Another, Dave, said: "Our counsellor was brilliant. We couldn't have done without her. She made us comfortable and helped us to talk about our feelings."

Relate spokesman Pat Nevin added: "We rely on volunteers, contributions and grants. It's always a bit of a tightrope."

Relate Blackburn is at 50 Preston New Road. The charity can be contacted from 9am to 9.30pm on 01772 717597.