BEING a parent is probably the hardest job in the world with many left feeling they are the only ones struggling to cope but a charity with bases across the county is on hand to show families they are not alone and help is out there.

Plant Dewi has been running in its current form for 13 years and thanks to funding from the Welsh Government has now expanded its reach across the three counties of Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion.

The main base is in Pennar but family and parenting support groups are held around the county, providing an opportunity for parents to pick up advice and skills, swap ideas and share common experiences in a non-judgmental and friendly environment.

This helps build confidence and relationships as well as showing parents they are not alone and no one gets it right 100% of the time.

Project worker Graham Elliott said: “We want parents to pick up the phone about anything. At the heart of it is encouraging parents and getting people talking about issues we all share. People say I was expecting you to tell me I’m a bad parent but that’s not what happens.

“It’s very easy for a parent to think you’re the only one. Years ago people not only had family around but the community as well.”

Manager Pete Arnold added: “We look at styles of discipline, how we talk and listen, routines and boundaries. We also look at how each child is different and the pressures that are on children. Internet safety is one thing we cover and social media. It’s very reflective to encourage discussion of how we parent. It’s discussing things not about being judged. It’s a safe place to discuss those concerns and worries we all have as parents.”

The team at Plant Dewi are an enthusiastic bunch who clearly enjoy their work and helping families. They speak passionately about the projects they run and are keen for more parents to get involved.

Steve Richmond, who runs groups in Milford Haven and the surrounding area, said one of the best things about his job was seeing people from all different backgrounds find common ground when they realise “there are no expert parents” and the groups are just "people trying to bring their kids up the best they can”.

“These groups aren’t like being at school, but a relaxed environment where we can talk about the issues we face as parents,” he added.

Yvonne Watson said: "My favourite thing is working with the families and the best thing is when families come back to say you have helped them make positive changes to their lives.”

Plant Dewi has worked with thousands of families across the three counties a year, including families with young children and adolescent groups as well as DadVenture, a newer project focusing on fathers.

Families can come with their children, there is a free crèche facility at Pennar, or on their own, extended family also attend.

Find out more by calling 01437 770020 or text parent to 07805 078967, or through your local school.

For more on DadVenture’s new group in Haverfordwest see page 41.