Following the success of a key support service for the elderly, one team is looking for more volunteers to continue the priceless work.

Copeland Age and Advice Service has issued an appeal to everyone in the county, urging anybody who could offer their time and friendship to an elderly person in need of a chat to get in touch.

The Telephone Befriending service was launched last year, as a way for those who were unable to see family and friends due to lockdown could still have a natter with someone who cared.

And with the service proving extremely popular throughout the community, but former volunteers being back in work, the CAAS team is looking for a few more helping hands.

"We still have about 40 volunteers helping with the service, but a lot of people have been going back to work and just don't have time anymore," CAAS financial director, Lesley Amor, said.

"Even just a telephone call once a week or so for people to have a good craic means so much to [the elderly].

"For some, speaking to someone through the befriending service could be the only time they speak to someone that day, or week."

She continued: "It's a really valuable service, because it can help prevent loneliness, which is a bigger killer than heart attacks and strokes – it can have a detrimental impact on a person's health and wellbeing, and lead them to need serious medical help from the overstretched NHS and social care system.

"[The befriending service] is a really good way to prevent this, and just give an elderly person the chance to have a nice conversation with someone friendly and supportive."

Lesley added that while Covid restrictions remain in place, volunteers don't have to just help over the phone, as when restrictions ease, they could even take their "buddy" out for a cup of tea or a nice walk.

And if you're worried about not having much to talk about, fear not, as the CAAS team does their best to pair volunteers up with those they have common interests with – so it's a win-win.

Lesley said: "It's a way for people to give back, and really feel like they're doing something good for someone else.

"Thank you so much to everybody who already does it – they're all amazing, and they make such a difference."

If you're interested in getting involved, contact CAAS on 01946 552166, or email referrals@caasteam.com.

Alternatively, visit the CAAS Facebook page, or head to the group's website here.