“SUPPORTIVE” women are being urged to help survivors of rape and sexual violence as part of a North-East volunteer service.

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre, based in Darlington, also serves the County Durham area and the centre hopes women over-18 from a range of ethnic, social and economic backgrounds and experiences will join their volunteer team.

The RSACC’s CEO, Deborah Barker, said: “We are looking to add to our strong team of like-minded, supportive women who provide valuable local support to women and girls across Darlington and Durham.

“Our volunteers receive full supervision and support, internal training on violence against women, safeguarding, helpline and skills as well as the opportunity to provide invaluable support to survivors of sexual violence from within a feminist framework.”

Female volunteers, ideally with an understanding of issues relating to violence against women and girls, would provide telephone support for one evening a week.

Training will be given in 12 weekly evening sessions and four additional Saturdays between March and June, with the first workshop being held on Saturday, January 30 at the centre.

And the RSACC also welcomes qualified or student counsellors who are able to provide person-centred counselling, volunteering for a minimum of three hours a week during the daytime or evening, either in Darlington or Durham city centre.

For more information or to book a place on the workshop, call Joy on 01325-354119 or email joy@rsacc-thecentre.org.uk.