Support group for service families

A NEW support group is being set up in Warrington for the families of loved ones who are serving in the armed forces.
Organiser Pam Arnold said she was moved by reports of former Culcheth schoolboy Fusilier Simon Annis, 22, who was tragically killed in Afghanistan.
She said: “Recently my son was posted to Afghan and I was looking for some local support and practical advice and found that there were no local services.”
She realised this was a much needed service and so decided to set up a charity. She is now looking for members to join a working party.
“I would like to hear from anyone who would like to be on a committee as we need people who can help with fundraising and setting up support meetings, creating a website and database and further down the line we would like to set up a help and support line,” she said.
Pam has the support of The Relationship Centre, which is currently allowing the charity to share its offices at no charge.
She said: “The charity is an important service as often the families do not know where their loved ones are and have to pick up the pieces when things go wrong.”
Families often faced loneliness and “irrational fear” which could affect home life. The charity would offer practical and emotional support.
The charity will also offer support when the son, daughter or partner is “being moody” when they are due to leave on a tour, and advice on finance and local services.
Pam, founder of the Relationships Centre, can be contacted on 01925 246910 mobile 07834326706.
Pictured: Tragic Simon Annis and his wife, Caroline, pictured at their wedding only six months before his death