A SUPPORT service for parents of children with special needs has been thrown a lifeline.

Face 2 Face in Brighton and Hove was due to close after funding for the project ran out after three years.

However, city charity Amaze has stepped in to take over and ensure the project can continue for at least another year.

Previously funded by national charity Scope, Face 2 Face provides parents with emotional support through one to one befriending.

It is provided through a team of volunteers, all parents of disabled children themselves.

Face 2 Face also runs a monthly autism charity group for families and a dads’ group.

Amaze, which provides support for families with children with disabilities, is providing about £21,000 funding for the service and the council is giving £5,000.

Face 2 Face co-ordinator Amanda Mortensen said: “I am delighted that Amaze has taken Face 2 Face under its wing.

“The service works with around 200 families a year and has a proven positive impact on parents’ ability to cope with extreme stress and sadness, particularly around the time of their child’s diagnosis.

“The service helps to reduce isolation, boost resilience and build vital social networks, all of which have a positive impact on outcomes for families and boost mental health and wellbeing.

“Amaze is the perfect partner as the key charity working with parents of disabled children in the city.”

Face 2 Face befriender Carole Villiers, who was helped by the service with her son Dexter, said: “Being able to talk to somebody who understands really helped me.

“The service makes such a difference.

“Becoming a befriender is a great way to give back.

“It’s such a great feeling when you know that you are making a difference to someone’s life simply by being there for them, listening to them and giving them the attention that they rarely get at this period of their life.

“There’s nothing quite like it.”

Parents or carers who are interested in accessing Face 2 Face should contact the Amaze helpline on 01273 772289.