FAMILIES living in rural areas who feel isolated because of poor transport, or who need support from professionals, could be set to benefit from a new centre.

Experts in health, Social Services and from other organisations are exploring the feasibility of setting up a family centre in Kennet.

There are already centres in West Wiltshire, Calne, Tidworth and Salisbury.

Jane Dobson, from Wiltshire Social Services, has helped to set up a steering group to investigate the idea. She said the Kennet centre could be an outreach service rather than be based in one town such as Devizes.

Because Kennet is such a large rural area there is no obvious place for people to go to, she said.

The steering group is looking at something more flexible and tapping into what is available locally.

It could be working on an outreach basis such as in village halls or schools, providing drop-in services.

There are lots of isolated families in rural areas who don't have access to cars to do things and meet up with people, and there are some parents who need some extra support with their parenting.

Some people would usethe service on an informal basis while others would be referred by Social Services.

The steering group has representatives from Sarsen Housing Association, Kennet District Council, NCH Action for Children, Barnardos, the NSPCC, Social Services and the Pre-School Learning Alliance.

Groups interested in becoming involved with the project should contact the chairman Barbara McDonald on (01672) 564140.