OPPORTUNITIES to gain valuable experience and learn new skills are being offered by a range of organisations.

A Volunteering Fair is being held at the new Wyvern House public services hub from 10am to 12pm on Tuesday, January 22.

Winsford Work Zone and Jobcentre Plus are hosting the event which will give residents the chance to find out more about volunteering opportunities and how to get started.

Councillor Louise Gittins, cabinet member for communities and wellbeing, said: “There are so many people giving up their time to help local causes and the local community. Without volunteers, many vital support services would cease to function. Volunteers help our community to thrive.

“Volunteering can also be an intermediate step when someone is trying to improve their personal circumstances or find employment. It is a great addition to any CV enabling volunteers to demonstrate evidence of key employment skills gained in a practical setting to prospective employers.

“It also offers an opportunity for voluntary organisations to benefit from additional support. It is very rewarding for the volunteer, whether they are on their journey to employment or just looking to give something back to their community. People can start the New Year with a fresh outlook and embark on a new start in life.”

Healthwatch will be offering opportunities to get involved with communications and administrative tasks as well as researching the views of people in children’s centres libraries, hospitals and social care centres.

Bright Memories is looking for people to help with art sessions and outdoor activities and to spend time with people with dementia taking part in enjoyable activities.

Cheshire Community Development Trust is seeking volunteers to help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation among people over 50 in a buddying and befriending scheme.

Changing Lives in Cheshire is offering opportunities to work in a warehouse, wood workshop, reception, café and on the shop floor.

The library hopes to recruit people to deliver books to the elderly, help people to use online services and encourage more young people to use the library through the summer reading challenge.

For further information call Winsford Work Zone on 01606 288901.