A NEW look service aiming to expand Somerset’s army of volunteers has been officially launched.

Funded by Somerset County Council, the Somerset Volunteer Service (SVS) will match people to the many volunteering opportunities that support or enhance council services.

It is being provided by Somerset You Can Do and is committed to recruiting people of all ages to volunteer and help improve lives and communities across the county.

Cllr John Osman, leader of the council and cabinet member for customers and communities, said: “Every day there are people giving up their time to help others and the value to their communities is enormous.

“As a council, the services we provide are often critical to people’s quality of life and volunteer support for them can make a real difference.

“I hope this new service is successful in encouraging even more volunteers to step forward. It doesn’t matter what age you are or where your skills lie, there will be an opportunity for you.”

Somerset You Can Do already has a strong reputation for championing and promoting volunteering in the region and holds the prestigious Investor in Volunteers Award.

Bryan Mitchell, manager of the centre, said: “I am proud to be running this imaginative and ground breaking service. Recruitment of volunteers has already started in advance of this month’s launch.

“There will soon be a new dedicated website explaining all the volunteering opportunities available, but in the meantime if you would like to find out more about the services we offer visit our website www.somersetyoucando.com”

Opportunities include volunteering in new community settings – meeting and greeting people of all ages and helping them to access information.

Volunteers can also be attached to one of the council’s Adult Social Care teams, offering additional support such as helping people get to their appointments or supporting them to use the new Somerset Choices website.

As well as the Somerset You Can Do website, anyone wanting to discuss the opportunities available through SVS can contact the team on 01278 664180.