A NEW independent visitor volunteer service is on the look out for local volunteers to help children in care in Bromley.

The service, run by charity Family Action, was launched on February 1, and hopes make a difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable young people in the borough.

The latest Department for Education figures suggest there were 265 looked-after children in Bromley in 2011.

Volunteers will befriend and support the children by taking them out and doing activities together.

Joanne Turberville, Family Action’s Independent Visitors Manager said: "Children in care have a difficult lot in life.

"That’s why it’s important that they are fully supported to achieve their potential.

"We are looking for volunteers who can help us make a real difference to the lives of these vulnerable young people."

Cllr Robert Evans, Executive Member for Care Services said: "The friendly mentoring approach (of volunteers) can help looked-after children to build trusting and stable relationships with people around them.

"In addition, volunteers themselves gain a great deal from dedicating some of their spare time in this very rewarding way."

Email Lewishambb@family-action.org.uk for an application form and more information on volunteering.