A TELEPHONE befriending service is looking for new volunteers.

The Silver Talk scheme, run by Derwentside Homes, matches volunteers with elderly residents across the county, who may live alone and would like to become more socially active in their local community.

Volunteers are given the opportunity to talk to the same clients or a range of new clients as often as they like.

Silver Talk manager John Atkinson said: “The befriending service is making a huge difference to the lives of local older residents and we want to continue this by inviting more volunteers to step forward.

“Volunteers are integral to make the service a success and to help elderly people in the area. We are always looking for more to continue our success.”

Since its launch in October 2012, the lottery-funded scheme has grown steadily with over 40 volunteers working from offices in Stanley and Durham supporting around 150 service users.

The next Silver Talk training programme will be held on July 3 at 10am at 25-33 Front Street, Stanley.

It involves a two hour training sessions over four weeks that provides volunteers with everything they need to brighten up the lives of older people.

To join the service, contact 01207- 235 760.