People with sight problems may need help with the talking book changeover

There are currently just 100 regular volunteers helping to provide vital services to over 100,000 blind and partially sighted people in Wales.

The latest recruitment drive by the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) in Wales.

It is being launched as part of the national Volunteers' Week which runs until next Monday.

RNIB Cymru's Policy and Communications Manager Ceri Jackson said they were looking for all kinds of people to come forward to help in a range of activities.

"We're looking for people of all ages - people who may be able to spare half an hour a week or a day a year," said Ms Jackson.

"It may be a mum getting back to work or it may be a professional who has some time on their hands."

One area in which the RNIB is urgently seeking help is with the "talking books" which are sent out to keep blind and partially sighted people in the news.

The books have recently changed over from an analogue to a digital service, said Ms Jackson.

"We are particularly looking for people who may be able to go out into the community and help people choose their books or troubleshoot any problems."

Abseils

Volunteers are also being sought to help in fundraising activities including charity abseils and scuba dives or rock-climbing - and to help in the charity's campaigning activities.

Ms Jackson said recruitment had become more difficult under criminal record checks but the RNIB has a volunteer manager to advise people who come forward.

A free CD has also been recorded offering guidelines.

Renu Hossain from Swansea, has been volunteering for RNIB Cymru for over seven months organising and running events.

The mother-of-one has been raising funds, as well as awareness of the issues, primarily within the Asian and Bangladeshi communities.

"Working for RNIB has shown me how incredibly important the charity is to so many people's lives, not only people with sight problems that use its services, but also their families, through the support and help they receive," she said.

"I am glad I help make a difference."