There’s no doubt that many people desire living in a place like Thirroul,  nestled between the escarpment and the ocean.

But the popular assumption that people  in the leafy northern suburbs village are all well off is far from the truth.

Thirroul Neighbourhood Centre co-ordinator Emily Messieh says the number of people seeking emergency financial assistance has risen ‘‘quite considerably’’.

‘‘There’s this assumption in the wider community that Thirroul is quite affluent. That might be true in some regards but there are many people doing it tough financially,’’ she said.

Ms Messieh said the centre had been running emergency relief for over 10 years.

‘‘Unfortunately the need is always outweighing what we can offer,’’ she said.

‘‘We also desperately need more volunteers to help out.

‘‘We see an average of about 20 people come in looking for some type of financial assistance. At times people may experience enormous financial pressure.’’

The emergency service is offered to people living from Stanwell Park to Wollongong.

Volunteers are required for about three hours once a month or eight hours per month, in a two-day period.

‘‘Patience, honesty, commitment, friendliness and flexibility are some of the qualities that would greatly assist volunteers in this rewarding job,’’ Ms Messieh said.

Contact Ms Messieh on 42672500 between 9am-1pm on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays or email emily@thir roulnc.org or thirroulneigh bourhoodcentre@hot mail.com.