MORE than one hundred volunteers are needed in Hampshire to support struggling families and children.

Safe Families for Children will work with Hampshire County Council to support struggling families across Eastleigh and the New Forest and is now looking to recruit 150 new volunteers.

The charity recruits and trains volunteers who seek to divert children from being taken into the care system.

They offer safe accommodation from a couple of nights to two weeks, mentoring support to parents struggling through difficult times and provide goods and services families might need.

Steve Crocker, director of children’s services at Hampshire County Council, said: “Hampshire Children’s Services have worked constructively with Safe Families for Children to help set up a partnership which will take forward our shared aims.

“While this programme is at an early stage, we look forward to evaluating the outcomes for vulnerable children in Hampshire.”

Safe Families for Children has already operated in Southampton.

The Right Rev Jonathan Frost, Bishop of Southampton, said: “It’s encouraging that this transformational project is expanding into Hampshire.

“With Church, charity and local government working together to help people in need, their contribution will make a huge difference.”

To get involved call 023 8225 0131.