A CHARITY to support families and partners of those serving in the armed forces is in the process of being established for the town.

Pam Arnold, a finalist in an Inspiring Women competition and co-founder of the Relationships Centre, said: “My 19-year-old son James Skelham, who is a Kingsman, was posted to Afghanistan nine weeks ago.

“I was looking for some support and practical advice and found there was no service available.

“We are so proud of him, he always wanted to be a soldier. But you don’t want to ask ‘if something happens who is going to tell me?’ “I just thought it is such an emotive issue, nearly every day there is a death.”

She went to an Army careers office and asked if there was any support groups for families. A sergeant told her there was a national organisation but nothing in the area.

Pam, aged 48, of Butts Green, Westbrook, wants to her use her experience of working at the Relationships Centre, which provides holistic, wrap around support, to build healthy relationships, to set up a group for families of those in the armed forces.

With the help of others, Pam wants to establish: * A listening ear support service, counselling and therapeutic services as well as employment and personal support * A service users database * Fundraising events, communications, promotions and campaigns * A name for the cause * A board membership.

She said: “I know that we in Warrington are immensely proud of the commitment and selfless dedication of our soldiers show to their country.

“We need to do our part and support the families and loved ones left behind. Warrington made me feel very welcome, this is just something that I can give back to the community.”

The Relationships Centre will be backing the charity but the organisation will need a base to run it from.

She said: “Not knowing where they are or if they are ok is hard enough especially with so much media attention. But the loneliness and isolation coupled with irrational fear can affect children, relationships and home life.”

The mum-of-two already volunteers for Help The Heroes and will be selling poppies at Ikea in the lead up to Remembrance Sunday.