'Parenting course reminded me that I am not alone'

A mother who completed a council's parenting course has said it helped remind her that parents "are not alone".

Fatoom Dar was one of 11 parents who completed Oldham Council's 10-week Family Links Nurture Programme.

The course, which began running this year, is aimed at helping parents manage emotions and cope with stressful situations.

Ms Dar said: "I have got a lot out of it and I have learnt so much. This course has been a good reminder that we are not alone."

Another participant, Louise Hall, said: "I'm dealing with things now in a different way. In situations where I'd shout, it has helped me to remain calm."

The mother-of-three added: "I used to cry all the time but now I don't cry all the time like I used to."

Jonathan Martinez took the course with the help of a Spanish translator.

He said: "It has helped me to really bond with my three children."

The course will next run from 15 January at Oldham Library and from 23 January at Failsworth Town Hall.

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