CHILDREN’S charity Barnardo’s is hoping to improve support for vulnerable young people in Halesowen by recruiting a team of specialist volunteers.

The Amazon service works with local victims of child abuse and sexual exploitation, and last year, staff provided counselling to more than a hundred children and young people under the age of 18-years-old.

However, the Great Cornbow-based charity wants to ensure that families in the town do not have to wait any longer than needed in order to access support and advice.

Halesowen News:

Therefore it hopes to recruit experienced volunteers who can work from its Midlands offices, or in local schools and children’s centres.

Barnardo’s support worker Nyah Malcolm said: “We do not want any families to be left on their own or facing a long waiting list before receiving specialist help.

“Children and young people need to have a safe place where they can explore and understand the impact of the abuse, and receive support to maintain their emotional health and improve their self-confidence and self-esteem.

“They may be suffering from depression, flashbacks, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, but a trusted adult can help them to make sense of what has happened and look to the future.

“Parents and carers will also be supported.”

Potential volunteers would need experience of working with children and young people, a background in counselling and an awareness of child sexual abuse, and an enhanced disclosure check.

They would normally need to be available for at least two sessions per week for up to six months, with each session lasting around 50 minutes.

Successful applicants would receive a detailed induction, regular supervision and ongoing training, while expenses can be paid.

For more information about volunteering with Barnardo’s call 0121 359 5333 or visit www.barnardos.org.uk/volunteering.

Nyah added: “This is a rare opportunity to make a positive and lasting impact on some of society’s most vulnerable children and young people.

“Our volunteers will support them in coming to terms with what has happened and learning to trust people again.

“They will also teach victims how to keep themselves safe and avoid risky situations.

“Working together, we can help these children and young people to move on with their lives and look forward to a positive future.”