A NEW way to hunt out volunteering opportunities is being offered by Skipton based Craven Volunteer Centre.

Launched during national volunteers week, the centre's 'volunteer connect' on its website, allows people to register their details, create a profile and search for a wide range of activities in more than 200 organisations.

Direct messages can also be sent to organisations and volunteers can choose to join the 'volunteer bank' - making them available to different organisations.

Dee Pollitt, centre manager, said she hoped the new system would make it easier for people to find roles suited to them.

The centre has also taken on a new part time member of staff, thanks to funding from North Yorkshire County Council's Stronger Communities fund.

"Nichola Holmes, who is available to support people who face these barriers by working one-to-one with them. She can identify appropriate roles, help with application forms, organise visits to volunteer-involving organisations and sometimes even accompany a volunteer to their first session."

Anyone who would like to use the service can call the volunteer centre on 01756 701648 or professional support workers can make a referral through the website cravenvb.org.uk .