Talking Newspaper in appeal for helpers

The organisation, which is based at the Millennium Centre, Badsley Moor Lane, Heerringthorpe is looking for 10 new helpers to help produce CDs and cassettes featuring the Rotherham Advertiser and other publications.

Talking newspaper co-ordinator Roy Beachill said: “Around 350 people rely on us for everything from news to short stories.

“We deliver the service to people who are blind or who just can’t hold a newspaper for whatever reason.

“It’s a free service and it’s good to know that we’re able to make a positive impact on their lives but we are struggling for volunteers. Numbers are getting worryingly low.”

Roy said that the Talking Newspaper operates between 9am and 3pm throughout the week but can work flexibly with volunteers’ giving anything from one hour of their time each month.

Training will be given to anyone who comes forward but Roy admitted that it would be an advantage to have some volunteers with IT knowledge and good literacy skills.

He said: “Everything from editing news stories to reading and recording the tapes and CDs is done in house but we need people for every job.

“That includes packing and posting the tapes and CDs.

“Any help would be greatly appreciated.”

Anyone interested in volunteering with Rotherham Talking Newspaper should contact Roy on 01709 373163.