WILTHSHIRE Council is encouraging local heroes to support children in need.

National research by the Children’s Rights Director for England shows that many children in care would like to have the support of an independent adult in their lives.

These would be people who could spend quality time with them, listen to their day-to-day concerns and take a special interest in their lives.

Wiltshire Council is looking to train more Independent Visitors to take on this valuable role.

Volunteers are needed who can communicate well with young people, share their interests and have some regular time to spare.

Eighty-four young people have received support from the Wiltshire scheme since it first started in 2000 and many continue to be involved with it long term.

The council is keen to broaden the range of volunteers it has available to match with young people.

Men in particular are asked to come forward and become Independent Visitors for teenage boys in care who would like a male role model.

Charlie, who is one of the young people who has benefitted from the scheme, describes why it has been important to him:

“Having an independent visitor was a life changing experience,” he said.

“Not only did I have somebody to talk to about the problems that were affecting my life but it was also my escape when I couldn’t cope; my visitor made me feel important.”

Steven, who was Charlie’s Independent Visitor, said: “It was a privilege to be able to earn Charlie’s trust and spend time with him doing things he enjoyed, away from the pressures of growing up in foster care.

“It made me think about some of the things I took for granted when I was young.”

Laura Mayes, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Young people in care often experience a lot of disruption in their lives and this scheme provides them with much needed consistency, support and encouragement at an important time.”

For more information about how you can get involved with the scheme contact Sheila Lupton on 01225 713934 or 07733 303124. Alternatively you can email sheila.lupton@wiltshire.gov.uk or visit wiltshire.gov.uk/independentvisitorscheme.