Volunteers are being sought in Surrey to provide extra support for children in care.

Surrey County Council is calling for people to come forward who are willing to give up time to befriend a child in need.

The council wants to find 10 new independent visitors to become a friend to children who are fostered or in residential homes to take the number of volunteers available to 60. The volunteers visit children aged 10 to 17 regularly.

Cabinet Member for Children and Families Mary Angell said: "Knowing that someone is volunteering and is there just for them is special for these children. Having a committed adult close to them makes them feel safe and cared for."

David, a 13-year-old in care, said: "My independent visitor is someone to talk to, have good fun with, sort out my problems, and someone you can rely on."

An open evening for people interested in taking on the role is being held on Tuesday 15 March from 7pm to 8.30pm at Omnibus House, Lesbourne Road, Reigate RH2 7JA. Email independentvisitors@surreycc.gov.uk for details or call 03456 009 009 and ask for independent visitor co-ordinator Nicola Taylor.

New volunteers attend a free two-day introductory training course and the next one is scheduled to run in Leatherhead on Saturday 26 March and Saturday 2 April, both between 10am and 4pm.

The role is open to people aged 18 plus from all backgrounds who can make a commitment to visit a child or young person once a month. No experience is necessary. Applicants undergo an assessment that includes Criminal Records Bureau and reference checks.

Once the training and assessment process has been completed, volunteers will be matched with a child. Ongoing support is provided.