PARENTS who would like a little help looking after their children are being offered the hand of friendship, thanks to a Droitwich-based charity.

But now the organisation, called Home-Start, is looking for more patient volunteers to allow them to expand their services in the town.

Its helpers offer support, friendship and practical help to families in all kinds of situations - from a family experiencing domestic problems to a new mum who feels she needs a hand looking after her little terrors.

Lyn Mason, organiser of Droitwich's Home-Start scheme, which is part of the Worcester and Wychavon division, said: "We support all sorts of families and anyone who wants to volunteer will be fully trained."

Lyn, who is a mother of two grown-up children herself, added: "The course is fun and it can lead to a new career for people who have been out of the workforce."

Lyn has lived in Droitwich all her life. She said: "It's why I love the job. It's the town where I grew up and I love what I do. I was a volunteer for seven years before I became an organiser."

Help is available to anyone who feels overwhelmed by the stresses of family life with at least one child under five.

All the volunteers need to be parents or grandparents. Volunteers will not be paid for the work and they will not be professionals, so will not take the place of health visitors, social workers or babysitters.

Instead they offer a friendly face and a shoulder to cry on when it all gets too much.

Lyn runs training courses for volunteers in the local area and the next one will start on September 14.

If you are interested in volunteering or would like help caring for your children, call Home-Start on 01905 29377 or 01905 827108.