A SOCIAL worker in Bolton who helped set up a successful support group for single fathers wants to set up a similar group for all parents.

Andy Kearney played a key role in setting up Saturday Father's Together, which has provided help and support for father's on a range of parental issues since it began two years ago.

The charity, based in St George's Street, Bolton, was set up for single fathers who want to spend more time with their children.

Trained counsellors offer help to dads who are having difficulties seeing their children and other volunteers provide practical advice on parenting -- such as how to change a nappy or how to cope with a teenage daughter going through her first period.

Now Mr Kearney wants to set up a new group, aimed at both mothers and fathers, to provide support for parents going through difficulties.

He has appealed to volunteers and professional law firms to get involved and help provide legal advice on parental issues.

Mr Kearney, SFT director, said: "We are really keen to set up the support group for both mums and dads. Every day, parents do not get to see their child for a number of reasons. But these same parents feel as though there is no support out there. That's when they start feeling isolated and sometimes suicidal.

"Some parents feel as though they are failed parents because they don't get to see their kids. This is wrong and we want to help set up a group which addresses these issues. We also want to set up a buddy system for people who are going through similar experiences."

Saturday Father's Together received a number of calls from dads who needed support during Father's Day last weekend.

Mr Kearney said some of the calls from fathers included one dad who had arranged to see his son on Father's Day, only to be told by his estranged partner that he could not see him.

The group also works in conjunction with Respect Counselling and Mentoring Project, who are on hand at their Chorley Old Road base for people who wish to talk about their feelings face to face.

People who wish to volunteer for the new support group or who want support should contact 01204 370588, e-mail: saturdayfatherstogether@

btinternet.com or visit the website at: www.saturday

fatherstogether.co.uk