PEOPLE across Darlington have been urged to help others in their local community by volunteering a helping hand, or by putting their skills to good use.

Darlington Borough Council is looking for Community Connectors – people who are willing to make a quick check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, offer a lift to someone without a car or helping around the home.

The council is working with Evolution to to run a workshop to learn more about how people across the town can work together to help each other.

It is hoped that in the future the Connectors may be able to play a role in establishing a Community Support Network that could offer local people a central point to find the help and support they need to stay active and independent.

Councillor Andy Scott, the council’s cabinet member for health and partnerships, said: “Often, it’s just the simple, little things that count.

“A friendly hello and check whether someone needs anything from the shop, a quick check to make sure milk bottles are not left out on the doorstep suggesting something could be wrong, a run around a house with the hoover and duster, all easily done for so many of us but could make such a difference to someone else.

“Please see if you can spare some time to help others – it will make a huge difference and help develop and build our communities.”

Anyone interested in the scheme is asked to attend the Community Network workshop on Wednesday, February 27, between 2pm and 4.30pm or 5.30pm to 8pm, at the Community Fire Station on Park Place, in Darlington.

For more information call Joanne Scott at Darlington Council on 01325-388823 or e-mail joanne.scott@darlington.gov.uk