A SERVICE which helps drug users is looking for new volunteers.

The Bath Area Drugs Advisory Service is expanding its work in the county and wants to find people willing to work for one full day a week for a minimum of a year after basic training.

Volunteers will be expected to staff needle exchanges, offer advice, listen and provide information to drug users, parents, partners and friends of users on the telephone or face-to-face.

The group-based training will be rigorous and spread over five non-consecutive weekends.

BADAS' chief executive Vicki Morris, said: "There is a lack of trained drug workers nationally and as the Government invests in better and increased service provisions, many agencies have struggled to fill jobs.

"BADAS offers many different services, from low-threshold, drop-in style services, which very chaotic people use, to appointment-based formal treatment options for people who have clear treatment goals in mind.

"Our complementary therapies are popular and effective in helping users of stimulants, like cocaine, crack and amphetamines."

There are always between eight and 18 volunteers working for BADAS supported by full-time staff.

Trainees are monitored through a three-month probationary period, with one-to-one sessions where they can talk to experienced members of staff about issues surrounding their work.

Past volunteers have come from a variety of backgrounds, including a chef, postman, a mechanic and video editor.

Organisers are looking for a willingness to learn, a belief in change and sympathy for BADAS's philosophy of harm reduction, which means helping people to do less damage to themselves and others, rather than telling them to stop.

There is no maximum age, but the minimum is 22.

Applicants who have experienced problems with drug or alcohol abuse are welcome to apply. but must show they have not been a client of any drug or alcohol agencies, counsellors or workers for two years.

All training is in Bath, and includes five weekday evenings from 6.30pm to 9pm as well as from 9.15am to 4.45pm on the five weekends. Travel expenses will be paid.

Anyone interested should telephone (01225) 483548 for an application pack.