A Cumbrian charity has been awarded £20,000 to launch a helpline for struggling families in Carlisle, Penrith and Workington.
The volunteer-run helpline is for people struggling with the day-to-day challenges of raising a family.
Cumbria Family Support has been awarded the cash by the National Lottery.
It said a phone call in the moment a crisis emerges, or when the family is just having a bad day can give parents the confidence to cope and get through it.
Cumbria Family Support said the helpline will give families an alternative to face-to-face support, ensure that rurally or socially isolated families have a way to connect and ensure that families don’t feel alone with their problems.
Set up in 1993, Cumbria Family Support works with families with children up to the age of 18. A team of volunteers and staff offer regular support, friendship, and practical help to families preventing crisis, breakdown, and separation.
The charity is now recruiting volunteers for the helpline and is encouraging people interested in the project to get in touch.
Chief executive Lynsey Buckle said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, this funding makes this project possible.
“Families facing crisis, trauma or difficulties raising their children are often emotionally exhausted, and alone. Being able to reach out to someone who’ll listen, who’ll reassure and support you – feels like a lifeline.
“We’re thrilled to be able to introduce this option to our families.”
Visit https://www.cumbriafamilysupport.org.uk/contact-us/ for more information about how to get involved.
