A recruitment drive has been launched to attract volunteers to help adults get the best out of life across North Ayrshire.

North Ayrshire Council’s community development team is looking for volunteers to support four different areas of Adult Learning. These are:

· The Computer Buddy scheme, run in libraries to show residents how to use a mouse and keyboard, print and save files, do basic internet searches and set up an email account

· The Macmillan Cancer Support information service, also hosted in libraries, to help people who have been diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones

· The Multiply community programme, which helps adults improve their numeracy skills and

· Working with refugees and asylum seekers in the New Scots community on a variety of projects.

Stuart Reid started volunteering with the council’s libraries service seven years ago and is now a Computer Buddy volunteer.

He explained: “The scheme is run by the local libraries and is there to help all people who feel they want to enhance their computer skills.

“I work with people of all ages and the benefits of being a volunteer are that I get to meet new people all the time, and I learn from them as much as they learn from me.

“The libraries provide support and training for volunteers, and you can volunteer as many or as little hours as you wish.”

Irvine Times:

Lisa Morton is a lifelong learning coordinator with thecouncil, and her team supports the Macmillan Cancer Support information service.

She said: “Volunteers are at the heart of the delivery of the libraries’ Macmillan Cancer information and support service.

“They offer a friendly, listening ear to anyone affected by cancer. They guide people to local and national support services and cancer information.”

You can find out more about volunteering opportunities by attending a special information day in Saltcoats Town Hall on Wednesday, November 1 from 6pm to 9pm.

Council staff will supply you with information and also help you fill in any necessary paperwork on the day.

If you are capable on a computer, compassionate about cancer, have it all added up when it comes to maths or have an interest in helping New Scots integrate into life in North Ayrshire this event is for you.

Councillor Alan Hill, the local authority's cabinet member for communities and islands, commented: “There are a lot of people across North Ayrshire who already generously give up their time to volunteer, and their contribution is priceless.

“We are hoping to see some more like-minded people at Saltcoats Town Hall on November 1. Simply go along on the day and speak to representatives from the various projects involved.

“You never know, it could be your first step to helping improve life for someone who just needs a little bit of support or companionship.”