11/05/2004

Minister recognises need to help parents at early stage

Health Minister, Angela Smith has officially opened a major conference marking the 25th Anniversary of the Parents Advice Centre.

Speaking today at the 'Family and Parenting Strategy', Angela Smith said that Government recognised the important role that parents have to play and reaffirmed her Department’s commitment to listen to the needs of parent’s in the development of a Family and Parenting Strategy.

She said: “This strategy will ensure that parents have access to appropriate help at an early stage. We want to ensure that parents are fully equipped in order to have the best possible impact on our children, who are the next generation of parents.”

The Minister concluded by paying tribute to the helpline volunteers saying: “The service provided by this team of committed listeners is priceless. The ability to provide invaluable support would not be possible without the help of the dedicated volunteers; themselves experienced parents who give their own time each week to help parents with their concerns.”

The Parents Advice Centre (PAC) has been running a service for families in Northern Ireland since 1979, offering guidance and counselling to parents and young people with family difficulties.

(MB)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

17 June 2013
Co Down Man Killed In New York
A 26-year-old County Down man has been killed in a hit-and-run incident in New York. Bronx police believe Mr Bell, from Newry, may have been hit by two vehicles near a bar in the early hours of Sunday morning. Officers are said to be looking for the vehicles involved in the incident.
07 August 2023
Bereaved Parents Urged To Check Eligibility For Financial Support
The Department for Communities (DfC) has urged bereaved parents whose partner died between 9 April 2001 and 8 February 2023 to check their eligibility for backdated financial support by the Department for Communities.
01 June 2015
Majority Of Children Placed In Pre-School Of Their Choice
The majority of children, whose parents applied for a pre-school slot during the schools' admission process, have been allocated a place. The Department of Justice said over 23,400 or 99.
23 May 2002
Lone parents urged to avail of New Deal
Social Development Minister Nigel Dodds has urged lone parents to improve their employment opportunities and broaden their life choices by participating in the New Deal for Lone Parents. Speaking at the launch of “Choices 2” - a magazine aimed at lone parents in Northern Ireland - Mr Dodds said: "Information equals opportunity.
20 November 2002
Human organs inquiry line launched
A telephone enquiry line which will provide information to members of the public about human organs and tissue retained after post mortem examination, was launched today. The line, known as the Human Organs Enquiry line, will be operated by the Parents Advice Centre on behalf of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.