OKEHAMPTON families are invited to a free advice session to help them cope with the pressures of everyday life.

The 'one-stop shop' has been organised by Barnardo's Okehampton Children's Centre, which supports parents and carers with under 5s. The event takes place at All Saints Church Hall on Market Street on Thursday, September 26 from 1pm to 3pm.

The information provided will cover housing, budgeting, healthy eating, reducing water bills, and the benefits of joining credit unions.

Barnardo's centre manager Chris Parsons said: 'This latest event follows a previous advice session in advance of the national changes to the benefits system, which attracted a lot of interest.

'This time we will be joined by West Devon Borough Council, South West Water, the Citizens' Advice Bureau, Love Food Hate Waste, and the Plough and Share credit union.

'We will also be providing free play activities for under 5s, which we hope will make it even easier for families to attend, as the children can have lots of fun while the parents seek support. Barnardo's staff will be available to talk about all of the other ways in which we can help families to achieve their potential.'

The children's centre is based at Okehampton College and is open from Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 2.30pm. Free activities take place both within Okehampton and the wider community, including Chagford, South Zeal and Sticklepath.

These include parenting programmes, breastfeeding groups, baby massage, healthy eating, communication skills, music and movement, and support for children with additional needs. Staff also provide links to health services, education, employment and training.