A SUPPORT scheme for young carers desperately needs volunteers to continue its work.

The charity Barnardo's runs the Stanley-based Derwentside Young Carers Project which supports youngsters looking after sick or disabled relatives.

But it fears its work will be hampered unless it can add to the five volunteers on its books.

As well as providing advice and support, the project also provides social and leisure activities, including outings.

Volunteer coordinator Hel-en Hodder said: "We need volunteers who can befriend the young people as well as provide extra pairs of eyes and ears. That is essential when you are out with a group of 20 or 30 youngsters.

"There are a lot of fun activities to get involved in, and we have been to Alton Towers and Lightwater Valley.

"We've taken the young people swimming and bowling and try to give them the opportunity to relax and have fun - to have a bit of 'normal' childhood.

"The volunteers are a crucial part of this project. Without them it would not have been the success it has been."

Last year, the project supported 27 boys and girls aged up to 17, the majority being 12 to 16.

The charity says the responsibility of caring for a relative can have emotional, social and educational effects.

The youngsters need support, the chance to get out and about, and the opportunity to mix socially with people of their own age and have some fun.

The project needs volunteers with transport who can help with leisure activities, provide a listening ear and play board games.

They can be close to the age of the carers, older, more mature people who have brought up their own children, or people in early retirement looking for something interesting and worthwhile to do.

Anna Tilney, 17, has been a volunteer since January. She is doing a health and social care course at New College Durham and found out about the project through the course.

She said: "I really enjoy it. It gives me a lot of satisfaction to see the kids enjoying themselves and it actually helps me with my course. I can highly recommend it."

Anyone interested in taking part can call Ms Hodder on (01207) 283585.