POSITIVE parenting courses have been launched across South Bucks to give hard-pressed parents support in the difficult task of bringing up their children

The six-week programme being run by health visitors, aims to improve relationships between parents and siblings.

Health visitor Chris Petford is co-ordinating the scheme and has pioneered a similar programme in East Berkshire, which has proved a huge success.

Ms Petford, now based at the Hughenden Valley Surgery, in High Wycombe, said: "There is a lot of pressure on parents in the modern world and a lot of conflicting messages.

"The courses aim to boost the self-confidence and self-esteem of both parents and children and above all, to make parenting more fun"

Areas covered in the courses include dealing with difficult behaviour as well as talking, listening and encouraging your child, and aim to target 18-month to five year-olds and five to 11-year-olds.

New courses begin at different venues in South Bucks in February, May and October. Each course costs £10 and will include a parenting handbook.

There will also be some financial help for those who need it.

Anyone interested should contact their health visitor or school nurse.