VOLUNTEERS are required in Middlesbrough to help families exhausted with the stress of looking after young children.

The volunteers would be part of Home-Start Teesside and would be required to help families with children under the age of five.

A spokesman for the organisation said: "Having young children around can be a very exhausting and stressful time, and sometimes family and friends are unable to offer the support and breathing space that is needed."

Home-Start Teesside will train volunteers who can visit a family once a week.

The charity works throughout Middlesbrough and also works with the Sure Start Middlesbrough project providing home support, as well as support in family groups.

The next course starts on September 26 and anyone who is over the age of 18 with a few hours to spare and who would like to help should call the office on (01642) 501811 or 249595, for further information.