Forces charity needs more helpers

The charity said the need for support was high

A charity which helps ex-service personnel and their families is asking for more volunteers in Surrey.

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) said the need for support was high with the armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

It worked on 1,000 cases in the county last year, and has several vacancies.

"The role is a quiet one where communications, perseverance, determination and research all play a part," said spokesman Tony Mallard.

He said volunteers visited ex-service personnel to offer friendship and to ensure their needs were met.

The work could include making sure people had the correct state benefits, mobility aids or a fridge or cooker.

"They will be highly trained by us and they will be 'buddied', so they have confidence in what they do," Mr Mallard said.

"We have a very good support network and our people deliver a great deal of assistance to the people who have served this country jolly well."