THE wide range of services offered by the Red Cross is being highlighted across Dorset following the publication of a new report.

A study has revealed that 99 per cent of people in the county are unaware of exactly how the charity can help them.

Now the Red Cross is detailing its services and encouraging members of the public to use them.

The South West region, including Dorset, has the highest proportion of volunteers in the county, but people are unaware of services including support following a flood or fire at home, reuniting separated families, life-saving training and short-term care for people in their own homes.

The charity also supports newly-arrived refugees, lends vital medical equipment and transports those who are unable to make journeys by themselves.

"We want people to know that we are there, in every community in the UK, all year round," said Chief Executive Sir Nicholas Young.

"People always think of the Red Cross in terms of the work we do across the world, and too easily forget that we are also around the corner."

Latest figures reveal there are 10,381 volunteers in the South West, comprising 22 per cent of the total.

More than 40,000 people used the medical loan service in the region last year, with 13,000 using the therapeutic care service and around 6,000 using Red Cross services at public events.

The Dorset branch headquarters can be contacted on 01929 551555.