MULTIPLE Girlguiding groups in Wellington are at imminent risk of closure unless new volunteers come forward.

Wellington Brownies and Wellington Guides are the latest long-standing community groups in the town to appeal for help in recent months, following similar volunteer shortages affecting the Wellington Flower Show and Wellington Carnival last winter.

The Brownies and Guides groups are now urgently seeking volunteers to help run their popular weekly meetings.

Brownies, for girls aged seven to 11, and Guides, for girls aged 10 to 14, take part in games, crafts, singing and skill-building activities.

Joanna Cavill, a physiotherapist and leader of Wellington Brownies, said: “Girlguiding is a safe space for girls to be girls, because in mixed groups sometimes young girls’ voices can get a little bit lost.

“It’s vital to have a space where girls can develop leadership skills and share their opinions without worrying about being laughed at.”

Joanna explained that several volunteer vacancies have arisen due to maternity leave and personal circumstances, and without new leaders the groups may be unable to continue.

There is also a waiting list for Wellington Rainbows, and Joanna said that with additional volunteers they could open another section.

“Girlguiding gives girls the chance to meet others from different schools, learn new skills and go on fun trips,”

“It would be upsetting if the local groups had to close.”

Volunteers must be female and over 18, but no previous experience is required. All training is provided and expenses are covered. Those unable to lead sessions can help behind the scenes with tasks such as bookkeeping or administration.

Wellington Brownies meet at the Methodist Church on Mondays from 6.30 pm to 7.45 pm, and Wellington Guides on Wednesdays from 6 pm to 7.30 pm during school term time.

Anyone interested in volunteering or finding out more can email [email protected]