YOUNG families in need of support across Wyre Forest are to benefit from an extra 10 volunteers who have been trained to help them.

The new recruits take the number of volunteers working with the Home-Start charity to more than 60.

They are all parents themselves and work with families with children under the age of five, visiting them in their own homes to offer friendship, support and practical help.

Chairman, Diane Kingston, said: "Being a parent, whatever your circumstances, is never easy but add in pressures like isolation, illness, disability or difficulties managing children's behaviour and things can seem overwhelming."

The volunteers, who are all ages and come from all walks of life, have to complete a 40-hour course of preparation, provide references and have an enhanced disclosure with the Criminal Records Bureau before being introduced to a family.

Senior co-ordinator, Belinda Sherry, said: "Having someone to talk to and someone to lend a hand can make a real difference to local parents."

Parents can contact Home-Start directly or ask their health visitor, GP or social worker to get in touch for them.

Anyone wanting more information about volunteering with Home-Start or receiving support should ring 01562 825896.