people with mental health problems are being invited to become volunteers.

They will be able to do unpaid work for organisations and communities across the area.

The volunteers will be given one-to-one support by mentors from Keighley Volunteer Centre.

They will accompany the new volunteers until they feel confident to work on their own.

The centre will also give advice and training to organisations which provide placements for the volunteers.

Organisers want to make the volunteering experience positive and worthwhile for both parties.

The centre is running the Volunteer Mentoring Scheme across the whole of Bradford district. A spokesman said one in four people each year experienced some kind of mental health problem. He said: “Just as heart disease and obesity are common by-products of our modern lifestyles, mental health problems, such as stress and depression, are rife.

“While volunteering may not replace paid employment, as an interim measure it can provide many mental health benefits.

“It provides structure and routine and can help people feel good about themselves.”

Volunteers improved their self-esteem, learned skills, made friends and took part in social activities. Anyone interested should call Bill Parker or Jacqui Hine on 01535 609506.

Or they can visit Keighley Volunteer Centre, at 8-10 North Street ,for an informal chat and interview.