Families in north Kent are in desperate need of help and support.

That is the verdict of charity Home-Start, which is calling for more volunteers to work with parents struggling to keep their home together.

The north Kent branch of the charity, based in Temple Hill Square, Dartford, has more than 80 helpers visiting and offering advice to parents with young children in Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley.

But it says it needs more to work with the increased numbers of parents turning to it for support.

Senior co-ordinator, Debbie Bowler, said: “Our aim is to work alongside families and help them. We do not tell them what to do. We help parents who feel isolated and low and our volunteers listen and offer support as and when the family needs it. It is the simple idea we all need somebody to talk to sometimes.”

She added: “It is also very rewarding for the volunteers to watch how the parents are improving and see the difference they have made.”

Volunteers, who are parents themselves, go on a 10-week preparation programme to improve their knowledge of childcare, after which they are allocated a family.

Families are then visited once a week for two hours, with volunteers helping parents with activities and offering friendly support.

For more information on how to become a volunteer call 01322 225100 or email homestartnwkent@btconnect.com