WHEN 24-year-old Lisa Hersey learned she was pregnant it should have been a joyous occasion.

But the unemployed mother of two, living in a cramped flat on the Grange Park estate, didn't know where to turn.

With her husband often away and little support from her family and friends, Lisa wondered how she would cope with an extra mouth to feed.

Luckily help was at hand from Homestart, a nationwide organisation which befriends needy families and offers practical assistance and advice.

Blackpool co-ordinator Carmen Conquer and her team of trained volunteers were able to work with the council housing officers to rehouse Lisa and her children Shane, 3, Sarah, 20 months, and Daniel, 6 months.

Carer Theresa Dawson, 66, visits Lisa one afternoon a week to help with the children and offers non-condescending advice, based on her own experiences as a mother and grandmother.

Theresa finds her role very rewarding and values the friendship the two have developed.

"Love and kindness cost nothing," she says.

"I've grown fond of the family over the past six months and Lisa trusts my advice.

"It requires no special qualifications to be a volunteer, only a sympathetic ear and a little patience. The smiles from the children are my reward."

Lisa also values Theresa's visits.

She said: "The friendship makes me happy. Theresa is a great help and we all look forward to her coming around."

Homestart was founded 25 years ago by a Leicester woman, Margaret Harrison.

Her idea was that parents able to cope with their children could support those with difficulties.

It provides practical help such as baby-sitting to give mums a break and collecting second-hand clothes for young children.

There is also a playgroup for children which gives an opportunity for parents to meet others in their situation.

Carmen Conquer joined Homestart a year ago and recently set up the Blackpool branch, situated at St Michael's & All Angels Church on Grange Park Estate.

The estate has its problems but Carmen says it isn't all bad.

"There are plenty of positive things that go on too and part of my job is to raise the profile of the area."

Homestart is appealing for adults of any age to give up an afternoon a week to help.

Work is unpaid, though expenses are covered. Contact Carmen on 398141.

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