Larkhall and District Volunteer Group is a voluntary organisation, formed in September 1994 as 'Avondale Careline' to provide a friendly chat on the phone to elderly, disabled and housebound people. The services provided have been expanded since 1994 to meet recognised needs within the local community. The group mainly operates in and around Larkhall, Stonehouse, Ashgill and Netherburn, but also provides assistance to people further afield when possible. The Larkhall area covers some 60 square miles, adjacent to the M74 between Junctions 7 and 9, approximately 20 miles south of Glasgow. It includes both rural and urban communities, with a wide range of needs and social circumstances.