A PIONEERING project in a York school aimed at tackling emotional problems in children has been extended across York and North Yorkshire.

All Saints' School, York, last year became the first school outside London to adopt the project, run by the charity, School Home Support.

Now the scheme has been extended to Westfield Primary, School, Selby Abbey Primary School and Burnholme Burnholme Community College, York.

School Home Support is a London-based charity set up 20 years ago to support pupils and address problems they are struggling with.

It works by providing a school home support worker who goes into the school for a number of days each week to speak to pupils referred by teachers.

Liz Thomlinson visits All Saints' School three days a week and says her role is to speak to children with all sorts of problems, from moving schools to bereavement.

Liz said: "A school home support worker does not work to a timetable as teachers do, so we have the flexibility to respond to phone calls or situations which arise in school, enabling a fast response when necessary.

"School home support workers can help with issues in school that affect home life or issues at home that are spilling over into school.

"For example, if a student has someone close who is seriously ill a school home support worker might be someone to whom the student can unload their worries, someone who can provide information and help to research support or help lines."

Carol Ashby will be employed at Westfield Primary School to work with the social inclusion team.

Alison Cammiss will be working at Burnholme Community College with young people and their families on attendance and punctuality.

Lisa Beaston will be working at Selby Abbey Church of England Primary School supporting parents with their welfare issues.

She will also work with parents who have children with special needs.

If other schools in York or North Yorkshire would like to take part in the programme they can phone Peta Boucher on 020 7510 2544, or email petab@schoolhomesupport.org.uk

Updated: 11:17 Wednesday, May 19, 2004