Call for big-hearted volunteers for homelessness project

Got a few hours to spare? Interested in volunteering to support people who have become homeless? Then the South Lanarkshire Shelter Families Project is looking for your help.

The housing and homelessness charity is currently searching for volunteers to work with homeless families throughout the whole of South Lanarkshire.

Kirstie Wallace, Project Manager, said: 'People become homeless because of a variety of different reasons, whether it's marriage break-up, being kicked out of your private rented house, or simply being unable to stay with family or friends any more.

'Having a safe and secure place to stay is central to our lives and at the Shelter Families Project we try to support homeless families through any stay in temporary accommodation, and to settle into a permanent home.'

She added: 'We’re looking for people who can commit to two or more days a month for a range of different tasks, from decorating, homework support, helping people move, or just providing an ear to someone who is in the midst of a big upheaval in their life. All volunteering opportunities are based around your skills, interests and experience.'

The South Lanarkshire Families Project addresses the many needs of vulnerable families to help them cope with the uncertainty and upheaval of homelessness. They also help families deal with living in temporary accommodation and, ultimately, settle into permanent accommodation.

In addition, it offers separate support for children and young people to address their particular concerns and needs, with art, drama or play therapy qualified Child Support Workers.

Volunteers will get free training and out of pocket expenses. Training starts mid to late September. For a free information pack, call Bill Knox, South Lanarkshire Families Project’s Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 01698 307112.

Notes to editors

1. Shelter believes everyone should have a home and helps 170,000 people a year fight for their rights, get back on their feet, and find and keep a home. We also tackle the root causes of Britain's housing crisis by campaigning for new laws, policies and solutions.  
2. Spokespeople are available for interview, telephone the media office on 0844 515 2442. An ISDN line number is available for broadcast interviews.
3. For more information about Shelter visit www.shelter.org.uk

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