A NEW service to help parents has been launched following the success of a newsletter in Helmshore -- its has been expanded to the internet.

The website has been launched by Rossendale Family Forum to give parents information and the chance to play a role in future developments for the borough.

It includes pages of information including a directory, helpline number, support groups, education and health information, a what's on guide and a parents networking page for parents to speak to other parents in the borough.

Alyson Cadd, who has led the development of Rossendale Family Forum, said: "For the first time parents and carers in the area will be able to access a wide range of independent information through our directory of helplines. They can also network with each other through the site noticeboard -- there is noting like the support of others who are in the same boat."

During the next two years the forum will train a group of volunteers to help run a variety of community projects.

Alyson added: "Parents need to deal with so many things that can affect family life these days. Often just getting the right information from the right people is a problem in itself."

A meeting has already been held bringing together many groups including the Tourist Board, Rossendale Domestic Violence Forum, Sure Start, The Horse and Bamboo Theatre, Lancashire Partnership and local councillors.

Alyson wants anyone with a useful contact or website to let others know about it by visiting their website at www.rossendalefamilyforum.org.uk