PARENTS of children involved in substance misuse and anti-social behaviour are being urged to take advantage of a new service in Darlington.

On Track Family Support in Darlington, is a support group for parents of children and young people.

It offers parents information, advice, training and support on how to cope with youngsters who become caught up in drug- taking or anti-social behaviour.

Group sessions are being set up in the community centres at Skerne Park, Branksome and Firth Moor, making it easier for people to access information and support in their areas.

One-to-one support is also available for parents or carers who find it difficult to take part in a group session.

Councillor Bill Dixon, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for social services, gave his backing to the scheme yesterday, after meeting On Track volunteers at the town's Central House Annexe, in Gladstone Street.

"It is important to support anything which can help take away some of the isolation and worry parents feel when their children misuse substances, or don't act as they should," he said.

"I would encourage any worried parent to go along to one of the group's meetings."

The On Track philosophy is that:

l Everybody has the right to information, advice and support.

l Being part of a family with someone who has a drug, alcohol or anti-social behaviour problem means there is often a sense of helplessness and hopelessness, with nowhere and no one to turn to.

l On Track does not have all the answers, but their volunteers can offer support and understanding, helping to take away some of that isolation and hopelessness.

The group meets every Monday, between 7pm and 9pm, at the Central House Annexe.

There is also a confidential helpline available on (01325) 346283, which is staffed during those hours. At other times there is an answer service which is checked regularly.

On Track Family Support in Darlington is supported by Darlington Social Services, the User Involvement Partnership, Durham Constabulary, Durham and Darlington Drugs Action Teams, the local health authorities and voluntary organisations.

Anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer can contact Karen Grundy on (01325) 346847.