Roadtown, Tortola - Single parents in the Territory will soon have another chance to gain knowledge about their parental rights and responsibilities.

The Social Development Department and the Ministry of Health and Social Development are hosting new sessions on single parenting to be held at the Road Town Senior Citizens’ Building next Wednesday and Thursday, July 15 and 16.

“It is important for single parents be familiar with their rights and responsibilities that are associated with the raising of their children. That is among the reasons why the department conducts sessions on single parenting at various intervals,” said Social Worker with the Family and Children Division Ms. Laurel Freeman.

According to Ms. Freeman relevant topics to be covered include custody and visitation, maintenance, parental rights, and communication. “A practicing lawyer who is well versed in family issues will be one of our presenters,” she added.

The upcoming single parenting sessions are scheduled to be held between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. free child care services will be provided on both days to assist single parents who will like to participate in the worthwhile sessions. In addition there will be free registration and refreshments provided. Interested parents may contact the Social Development Department to register or for additional information on telephone number 494-3431.

Among other services, the Social Development Department offers mediation services, parenting seminars, job placement, meals on wheels and early intervention services. Its other duties include community development, elderly services, disability and rehabilitative services, probation services, and family and children services.