A SCHEME run by children's charity Barnardo's to give support to young carers is appealing for volunteers to help carry out its work.

Derwentside Young Carers project works with young people who are caring for sick or disabled relatives.

Last year, it supported 16 young people aged up to 16 - the majority being in the 11 to 13 age group.

A Barnardo's spokesman said: "Having the responsibility of caring for a relative at such a young age can have an effect on the emotional, social and educational development of young carers.

"The project helps provide support and advice to young people and their families.

"To do this, the project needs volunteers who can provide transport, help with leisure activities, escort children and young people to leisure activities and help with the production of a regular newsletter."

In Derwentside, the project is working with young people who are mostly caring for a disabled parent - although some are caring for a brother or sister.

Anyone who is interested is asked to call the project on (01207) 283585.