FREE training for volunteer community organisers is on offer after the success of three people who have helped people bring about positive changes.

The organisers have listened to more than 1,100 people and helped residents carry out a range of community-led projects, from litter picks to setting up meeting groups for lonely older people.

Now the Community First team wants to roll out more training, as one of only 15 organisations to get a Locality community organiser programme grant.

One of the organisers, Alex Neale, said: “Almost anyone can become a volunteer community organiser.

“Sometimes people already have lots of ideas about what they would like to change, but just need to feel confident and empowered to make a start.”

The charity will train 30 volunteers, who will get the chance to gain a national accreditation in the purpose, practice and process of community organising.

It will begin with a two-day introduction on January 24 and 25 in Devizes, followed by six months of training, mentoring and support.

Mother-of-one Miss Neale, who had worked in a Calne bank, has now taken a life coaching diploma.

She said: “I needed a change and wanted the chance to make a difference and this job allows me to do that.”

The other organisers who completed their training last April were 42-year-old Katrina Watson, of Shrewton, and 25-year-old Alex North, of Devizes.

Mother-of-two Mrs Watson had earlier cared for older people and ran a youth football team. Mr North had worked for Citizens Advice.

The charity particularly wants to hear from people in Devizes and Calne.

Contact Alex North on (01380) 715892 or email anorth@communityfirst.org.uk