A pilot scheme to find visitors to visit disabled people is to be launched in Maldon and Chelmsford.

The Independent Visitor Scheme is a unique project set up by the Essex Coalition of Disabled People, an organisation run by and for disabled people, which was set up in 1995 with lottery funding.

Volunteers will be recruited to support disabled people to help them to move forward in their lives.

The role of the visitor may vary from visiting someone in their own home to providing companionship on a trip to the shops, or to the doctors, or to helping someone access a course at a college or club.

Becky Reid, the scheme's co-ordinator, said Maldon and Chelmsford had been chosen as the towns in mid Essex for the pilot.

"We need volunteers to visit at least once a month for a couple of hours. They can be from all walks of life, aged 18 upwards. We are looking to recruit disabled people as well."

Miss Reid explained that those covered by the scheme would include disabled people who may not be considered in highest priority need.

"We shall not be going into the areas that the statutory bodies cover," she added.

Volunteers will receive training and on-going support and the first training programme is planned for January.

Anyone who would like further details can contact her on 01376 501601.

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