FRIENDSHIP is important to all - and the Gloucestershire Friendship Scheme, launched by Guideposts Trust, also offers perks.

The scheme pairs people with shared interests, bringing together volunteers with people who have learning difficulties.

Volunteers have the opportunity to make a difference in their own lives as well as the life of another person. Because they make an impact on the community, participants find that their own lives are enriched.

Lynne Earle, of Guideposts Trust, said: "The volunteers are brilliant because they enjoy doing this, that's why it works."

The idea is simple. Volunteers and their paired friend get together to share the activities they both enjoy. Their interests may be sports, going out for a meal, walks or cinema. Because of one-to-one support, the person with learning difficulties gains confidence and greater independence.

Participants find that volunteering offers personal satisfaction in meeting new people and making friends. Some gain skills and experience which can benefit their career.

Astrid Cramer learned about the Friendship Scheme while attending the Job Club at Stroud College.

She says she was happy to join. "This was especially due to the matching of people with similar interests - not just pairing people up because one party requires supervision for an activity while the other was willing to give some free time to the voluntary sector."

Astrid and her friend, Zo, share an interest in the cinema. "A couple of times a month we look forward to seeing the latest films and escape into the world of fun, fantasy and magic."

More volunteers are needed in different parts of Gloucestershire. Commitment is for two to three hours once a fortnight; expenses are met and the friendship co-ordinator gives participants full support.

To find out more about the Friendship Scheme, contact Lynne Earle on 01452 410101 or email lynne.earle@guideposts-glos.org

Guidepost Trust is a charity which provides services for people with learning difficulties, those recovering from or with mental health problems, and people with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.