FREE training is being offered for people interested in volunteering for the Andover Advocacy Allian-ce.

Advocacy is about supporting the right of everyone to have control over the lives they choose.

A volunteer advocate works alongside people who are vulnerable or disadvantaged, to ensure their views and wishes are listened to and respected.

Andover Advocacy Allian-ce, which will be running the free training course in the spring, is a well-established project which has been offering an independent advocacy service for North West Hampshire since 1995.

Spokesman Roland Mat-thews said: "The alliance is now seeking to expand its pool of volunteer advocates.

"No prior experience or knowledge is required and time available to work with clients can vary to suit individual circumstances."

Anyone interested in the challenge of supporting people who have difficulty representing themselves and getting their views heard should contact Mr Matthews on 01264 336380 or email andoveradvo cacy@freenet.co.uk at Crick-lade House, Charlton Road, Andover.