The staff at The Listening Centre need to be good at their job for they are presented with a range of difficult family problems, from relationship breakdowns and bereavement, to mental health issues, childhood abuse and bullying.

TLC, as it is known, was set up in 1993 and offers low-cost counselling to those on limited incomes in Blackbird Leys and surrounding areas.

Margaret Jacobson, the manager of TLC, said: "The counselling offers a safe and confidential space to explore situations and feelings with someone outside of your immediate situation.

"I have never known there not to be a waiting list for our service in the ten years I have been associated with the centre."

TLC is a co-operative community, providing support and training to those working in counselling and psychotherapy, and offering help to clients who would otherwise not be able to afford therapy.

It has a team of around 20 counsellors, who all work as volunteers. Some are in training and some qualified. There is a part-time, paid member of staff, a freelance fundraiser and clinical consultant.

Counselling sessions are on an individual basis. Clients may self-refer, or might be given TLC's details by their GP or health visitor.

Counsellors work with clients usually for a maximum of six months. They see around 150 clients a year, two-thirds of whom are referred by their GP. One client said: "I learned more about myself in counselling and have made contact with family again. Without TLC I would have been lost." While another said: "Counselling has given me the confidence to believe in myself and I am applying for jobs now."

Based at the Cuddesdon Corner Family Centre, sessions are available by booking on Mondays, 12.30pm-8.30pm, and Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 5.30pm-8.30pm.

There is a limited crèche availability in the Family Centre during early Monday afternoon sessions.

Anyone wanting to use this service can contact the centre on 01865 794794.

TLC is dependent on money from trusts and grant-making bodies, donations and client contributions, and fundraising activities. They have held Flag Days in Oxford for the past two years.

If you would like to volunteer or are interested in being a trustee, visit the website www.thelisteningcentre.org.uk or ring 01865 794794. Volunteers are also needed at its office at Donnington Bridge.