WHEN you think about the emergency departments at hospitals, physical injury typically comes to mind - but it is a common occurrence that people who are not suffering from physical or even medical problems seek help there whilst nursing staff do not have the time on their hands to help them properly.

The ICAN Centres based at Glan Clwyd, Gwynedd and Wrexham Maelor Hospitals are equipped to support people with mental health difficulties and are calling for volunteers to help to step up its services there.

ICAN, a grassroots campaign to empower people in North Wales who are struggling with mental health, offers help to patients seeking help on a nightly basis who arrive by ambulance, police, car, taxi or on foot because they have nowhere else to turn.

The centres are open every night of the week between 7am and 2am and ICAN is looking for session supervisors and volunteers to join its teams across the three hospitals.

Mienir Evans, project coordinator, said: "The ICAN Centres offer support and a listening ear to people who come to the Emergency Department but do not need any treatment for a physical injury or condition, rather they come in because of social problems or issues which are impacting on their emotional health and wellbeing.

We are looking for Volunteers and Supervisor Session Support to join our teams in Ysbyty Gwynedd, Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and Ysbyty Maelor, who have time and a listening ear to offer for those going through a difficult time."

Glan Clwyd and Wrexham Maelor have long been struggling with some of the longest A&E waiting periods in Wales and ICAN volunteers could help to free up valuable time.

ICAN's existing team of volunteers come from all walks of life; from dedicated individuals who could offer their time to students and Health Board Robins or retired professionals who want to a new adventure.

ICAN will be holding an information and recruitment event in Ruthin on Thursday, January 17.

Full training and induction will be provided and volunteers will be required to provide a DBS Certificate.

Supervisor session staff will be paid on an hourly range basis and volunteers will be paid expenses for up to 15 miles each way from the sites.

The session will take place at the DVSC's Naylor Leyland Centre on Well Street, Ruthin, from 10am to 12pm.

For more information contact the DVSC by by calling 01824 702441 or email office@dvsc.co.uk