A DISABILITY charity is appealing for volunteers in an effort to drive more of its services into West Dorset.

Diverse Abilities Plus provides support and services for disabled people of all ages and their families across the county from its headquarters in Poole.

Wendy Barfoot, daughter of the charity’s founder Phyllis Edwards, is one of a number of volunteers who has been attending events, such as Burton Bradstock’s Spring Tide Food Festival, to help raise awareness of the charity’s work across the west of the county.

Mrs Barfoot said: “My mother founded Diverse Abilities Plus in 1955, so I have been aware of the great work the charity does for families in Dorset all my life.

“My sister Marilyn is benefiting from the supported living service that the charity provides, and this would not be available without the staff, volunteers and fundraisers that support the charity.”

She added: “My aim is to make the people in West Dorset aware of the charity and the great work it does.

“Also, I want to make the people of West Dorset aware that they can volunteer for their local charity and benefit adults and children in their area.”

Since retiring, Mrs Barfoot and her husband Eric have offered support by manning stands at events and gardening at supported living accommodation.

She also raised £2,000 through a sponsored skydive in May.

Phyllis Edwards began the charity in Poole more than 50 years ago as a group of parents who wanted to provide better opportunities for their children, who had physical and learning disabilities.

Today, the charity offers services ranging from advice on accessing benefits to children’s respite projects.

During school holidays, it works with the Wyvern School in Weymouth to run a project called Coping With Chaos Play Opportunities.

Ashley Weedon, from the charity, said: “Volunteers at Diverse Abilities Plus events help us get on the map and raise awareness of the work we do in West Dorset.

“We’re often told that our service in this region is invaluable.

“By supporting us, you will be helping us provide this service and reach out to even more families in this area that desperately needs our support.”

For more information about the charity, or to volunteer your time, please call 01202 718266 or visit <&bh"http://www.diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk"> diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk<&eh>