A SERVICE which supports parents of children with special educational needs is looking for help itself.

Parent Partnership, in Peterlee, is on the look-out for volunteers to become independent parental supporters who listen to parents and help them express their views.

The partnership, part of Durham County Council's education service, works alongside services, such as learning support, educational psychology and special educational needs officers.

It can give parents information on school support, assessment procedures, support services, health and social services and conciliation.

The organisation can also put parents in touch with support groups throughout the county, enabling people to get together to discuss their concerns in a friendly, informal setting. Regular events are also organised to help parents take a part in their child's education.

It is looking for reliable, objective people, who have the time, commitment and enthusiasm to learn about special educational needs issues.

Elaine Chandler, coordinator of the Parent Partnership, said: "It's an opportunity for people not to learn new skills, but also to help develop the service.

"We give on-going training to our volunteers, who offer parents practical and emotional support, attend meetings with them, make sense of any paper mountain and help parents to explore the options for the child's education.''

Anyone interested in becoming an independent parental supporter can get information by calling Elaine Chandler or Joan Temple, on 0191-5873541.