A CHARITY for battered women is making a plea for volunteers to help tackle a workload that has quadrupled.

Worcester and Malvern Women's Aid needs more people to man its 24-hour helpline, which reaches out to women across the area who are victims of domestic violence.

The charity was set up in November, since when the number of calls from distressed women has increased four-fold.

"Our charity is for any women who are experiencing domestic violence or have done in the past," said Sharne Mahre, co-ordinator and development worker.

"We're open at all times and make sure someone is always on hand to talk to worried or frightened women, whether it's in the middle of the night or in the day when they have dropped the kids off at school.

"We also give advice on general matters, such as legal rights, benefits, and housing."

The charity recently had a windfall of £20,000 from the Nationwide Foundation and the Violet Eveson Trust, based in Malvern.

Each organisation gave the helpline £10,000 to help with running costs during the next year.

The charity plans to employ a support worker for 12 hours a week to help with the busy workload.

Staff also hope to expand the charity by bringing in outreach workers to meet face-to-face with victims and give them advice and guidance.

Worcester and Malvern Women's Aid is holding an open morning for potential volunteers from 10.30am tomorrow in the city's Angel Centre. New recruits will be given training.

Anyone who wants to volunteer but cannot make it to the event should call the centre on 01905 726205.

The charity's free helpline, open 24 hours a day for women suffering domestic violence is on 0800 9802946.