THE Armed Forces charity SSAFA is urgently appealing to the people of the Catterick area to join its team of mentors to provide one-to-one support for ex- service men and women.

The charity has seen a significant increase in need for mentors to help support veterans in North Yorkshire who have been wounded or injured as a result of their service.

It is searching for enthusiastic, dedicated volunteers with varied life experience to volunteer a few hours a week to help ensure veterans fulfil their potential outside of the military.

Mentors provide both emotional and practical support, ranging from help with writing CVs and securing housing to encouraging new activities and hobbies, in a bid to avoid social exclusion.

Head of mentoring Gary Williams said: “Our experience of working with the Armed Forces community for over 130 years has taught us that leaving the Forces can be extremely challenging for some ex-servicemen and women and their families.

“Becoming a mentor is incredibly rewarding and helps build relationships that can make a real difference. Our Forces have been there for us and mentoring provides an opportunity to give something back by helping them create a new life on Civvy Street.”

Visit ssafa.org.uk/mentors or call 0800 032 5612.