VOLUNTEERS are stll needed for Lancashire Red Cross' Fire Victim Support Service to be launched later this year.

The Preston-based service offers practical and emotional support to those people affected by a domestic fire or flood.

Service co-ordinator Geoff Jenkinson said: "This unique service supports people in crisis in communities throughout Preston and the surrounding area and is not offered by any other organisation in the area.

"If you enjoy meeting people, are caring, compassionate and interested in people's well-being and have a few hours to spare, we'd like to hear from you.

"Training for all volunteers will take place this Saturday and Sunday."

The volunteers will be specially trained to use an adapted caravanette-style vehicle to help get support to people within the first few hours of an incident.

The vehicle can be used as a shelter from the scene and offers people shower and toilet facilities, toiletries, clothing, toys, first aid and light refreshment.

It also has a telephone and camera to record damage for insurance purposes.

Volunteers also need to be able to help victims find temporary accommodation and point them in the direction of other support agencies when necessary.

The service will be free to anyone in the area if the Fire Service feel it necessary to call the Red Cross unit to a scene.

Anyone interested in volunteering should call Geoff on (01772) 709555.

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