A SELF-HELP group is appealing for volunteers to join their ranks.

Regardless of whether you are in your twenties or a pensioner, the Blackburn, Hyndburn and Darwen branch of Home-Start needs your help.

Home-Start provides support and friendship to help young families under stress. Volunteers are sent out to assist them in their homes.

And although anyone can be a volunteer - as long as they have had experience of bringing up a family - the candidates are given a 10-week training course to sharpen up their skills.

But Home-Start is in need of more volunteers to offer a wider service.

Co-ordinator Donna Bailey said: "Our Hyndburn branch was set up a year ago and we only have 15 volunteers.

"It is an essential service. Rather than a professional person going into a family's home, we provide relaxed, friendly support.

"It's more like another mum or dad popping in for a chat or to help out with the kids every now and again."

Families who accept help from Home-Start are usually referred by health visitors and social workers.

Other groups such as Relate, Stepfamily, Gingerbread or playgroups also advise families to seek help from Home-Start.

If you interested in becoming a Home-Start volunteer contact Jane Hodkinson on 01254 692613 or 693623.

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