"FIRST Steps to Freedom" is a registered charity launched in 1991 to offer help, advice and support to sufferers of anxiety and stress problems such as phobias, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and body dysmorphic disorder.

It also offers help, advice and support to the families of those with borderline personality disorder.

Over the years we have helped thousands of people to control their disorder.

We are looking for volunteers who would be willing to help us to help others. Our helpline is available from 10am-10pm every day.

We are looking for people who can spare between two and four hours every week on a regular basis.

Full training is given. Senior volunteers act as back-up after training and there are monthly support group meetings and fortnightly calls.

There is no need to travel anywhere -- all training and support is given over the telephone and there is no charge.

We also offer a separate telephone number so that volunteers are not contacted out of hours. This also ensures that privacy is not violated.

Anyone interested should contact Sheila on 01926 864473 during office hours.

Those who require help themselves should contact First Steps to Freedom, 7 Avon Court, School Lane, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2GX.

LESLEY HOBBS, Co-founder.