NEW training gets under way in January aimed at those who would like to volunteer at a North-East council.

The six-week ‘Ready to Volunteer’ Course is delivered by Community Learning on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 11.30am from Wednesday, January 14.

Middlesbrough Council has more than 600 volunteers - ranging from those who contribute a few hours a month to those volunteering regularly and helping to deliver services – and is currently recruiting in a number of areas.

There’s also an accredited five-week course for those already volunteering with the council called ‘The Volunteering Experience’.

Sharon Barker, the council’s voluntary sector liaison officer, said: “The jobs market remains extremely tough, and employers are looking for candidates who really stand out.

“That’s where volunteering comes into its own by providing good, relevant vocational experience to add to academic qualifications.

“The volunteers make a great difference to the organisations and communities they work with, and in turn they stand to gain a great deal.”

For further information on volunteering opportunities and training contact Voluntary Sector Liaison Officer Sharon Barker on 01642-729127 or email volunteering@middlesbrough.gov.uk