KIND-HEARTED volunteers are wanted to help special needs children across Fylde to broaden their horizons.

The PIP integration project is looking for local volunteers to support youngsters with special needs at an activity of their choice within their community. Activities may include Brownies, Scouts, football, youth club, playgroups and nurseries.

PIP volunteers go along to the activity with a special needs child and give support both on a one-to-one basis as well as helping with the group as a whole.

Currently there are 120 volunteers supporting 200 children with special needs, ranging from behavioural difficulties to physical and learning handicaps. Anyone over 16, both men and women, can offer their help and for people looking at a career in childcare the experience can be invaluable.

Volunteers are carefully matched to a child and spend several weeks getting to know about them and their family before joining them at their chosen activity.

PIP is looking for a minimum of two hours a week commitment from those interested. In return, volunteers get the pleasure of helping special needs children develop new social skills as well as seeing the way other youngsters have their activity enhanced by the presence of a child with special needs.

If you are interested in becoming a PIP volunteer, contact Joy Barnett on 621473.