OKEHAMPTON families can get free advice next week about how their benefits might change in the upcoming months.

Free advice is being arranged by Okehampton Children's Centre on Friday, March 8 from 9.30am to noon. Taking place at the Okey Cokey indoor play centre on the North Road Industrial Estate, parents and carers of under fives can talk to experts while their children enjoy a free play session.

Advice will cover benefits, budgeting, crisis loans and community care grants.

Okehampton Children's Centre manager Chris Parsons said: 'This will be an important opportunity for local families to get some free advice in advance of the national changes to the benefits system.

'We will be joined by the Citizens Advice Bureau, Careers South West, West Devon Borough Council and several other organisations who can offer help.

'We hope that hosting the event in a play centre will make it even easier for families to attend, as the children can have lots of fun while the parents seek support.

'Barnardo's staff will also be available to talk about all of the other ways in which we can help families to achieve their potential.'

Okehampton Children's Centre, run by Barnardo's, is based at Okehampton College.

The centre is open on weekdays from 9.30am to 2.30pm.

Free activities take place both in Okehampton and out in the local community, including Chagford, South Zeal and Sticklepath.

These include parenting programmes, breastfeeding groups, baby massage, healthy eating, communication skills, music and movement, and support for children with additional needs.

Staff also provide links to health services, education, employment and training.

l For more information e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]

Alternatively you can visit www. barnardos.org.uk/okehamptoncc or call 01837 658621.