Following an increase in requests for support to the Family Information Service from parents struggling with issues specifically around the teenage years, the Children’s Trust Unit has commissioned five ‘Riding the Storm’ courses for the coming year.

Riding the Storm is a programme that is delivered by Relate and is specially designed to help mums, dads and carers develop a better relationship with their teenagers by improving how they communicate. The courses are short, practical, fun and free, they include:

· Everyday pressures on young people today

· Teenage issues around sex and relationships

· How to deal with arguments

· Setting boundaries and resolving problems

The first two programmes are on Friday 3 May and 10 May between 9.30am and 3.30pm at Priory Street Centre, the sessions include lunch. There are also sessions in the evening, on Thursday 23 May, 6 June and 13 June at the Friends Meeting House, Friargate between 6pm an 9pm and includes refreshments.

Parents can access the course by contacting the co-ordinator Kathryn Ashworth direct on 01302 347 445 or via kathrynashworth@relatemid-yorkshire.org.uk or by contacting the Council’s Family Information Service by phone on 01904 554444.