Family centre opens

4:53pm Monday 12th May 2008

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A NEW £1million family support centre has opened in Colne.

The Pendle Children and Parenting Support Service in Burnley Road will help prevent family breakdown and avoid children coming into care.

Opening the centre, County Coun Marcus Johnstone said: "I am proud of the fact that this centre has been designed and built specifically around the needs of families.

"If they come to the new centre, they will find a relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere and all the agencies they need in one place, so they can get help to tackle any problems they face."

The centre replaces the service that was run from a former day nursery. Manager Diane Booth said: "The previous building didn't meet our needs but the new one is light and airy and welcoming.

"There are new rooms laid out like an ordinary home which give us the chance to work with families in a comfortable atmosphere.

"People come here knowing they will not be judged and will be accepted for who they are."

The service caters for families with children aged up to 18 and provides direct support such as parenting classes, separate sessions for teenagers, and behavioural work.