A district-wide hunt has started for volunteers willing to support victims of crime during the aftermath of their ordeals.

Keighley and District Victim Support is hoping to recruit at least 15 new volunteers during the current national Victim Support Week 2000.

The branch has 22 volunteers but is providing interim cover in Bradford after its sister scheme, Bradford Victim Support, had its funding withdrawn - and needs the extra volunteers to help deal with its growing number of referrals.

The Telegraph & Argus reported earlier this month how the National Association of Victim Support Schemes had axed the Bradford scheme's funding because its management committee had failed to comply with the charity's national code of practice.

Pat White, chairman of the Keighley branch, said: "We need at least 12 people to cover the Bradford area and another three or so to provide cover in Bingley and Shipley.

"As long as they're over 18, anyone can do it - retired people can do it and we have people from all sections of society. Volunteers just need to be good listeners, able to attend the training sessions, work for Victim Support for at least a year and accept at least two referrals a week.

"Our volunteers are here to help anyone who needs it.

"The effects of crime can be devastating and our volunteers provide the opportunity for help and support and play a vital role in the recovery process of crime.''

She added that the scheme had received 2,049 referrals over the past year and 735 during last month alone.

Volunteers will receive training in April and once trained are likely to be involved in everything from counselling and advising victims of crime to providing practical help and attending court and identity parades with them.

Meanwhile, two of the branch's volunteers were due in London today to watch Victim Support's patron, HRH The Princess Royal, join The Queen in unveiling the organisation's new national advertising campaign.

Would-be volunteers should contact Keighley and District Victim Support on (01535) 606871 or the organisation's recruitment line on 0845 306 2000.

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