PARENT power is getting a big boost thanks to a groundbreaking new training course that is being pioneered in the Leigh area.

Training For work With Parents is a new nationally recognised qualification for professionals and volunteers who work with families.

Wigan SureStart and the national Parenting Education & Support Forum (PESF) have joined forces to deliver the course in Wigan Borough.

The first course begins this month and has attracted a strong field of candidates including health workers, nurses, social care professionals, school staff and parents.

Wigan is the first borough in the north to deliver the course, which aims to provide essential skills and knowledge to those who work with parents.

The course also aims to raise awareness about the development needs of both parents and children, as well as developing understanding about the relationship between parents and children.