A SUPPORT group for mums and dads of disabled children is looking for more members.

HIPPOS was set up by parents as a monthly session where they can share advice about living with a special needs child.

Now in its second year, the group attracts about 10 parents and children to Windale School in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, on the first Tuesday of every month during term-time.

Organisers believe HIPPOS is the only support group for parents of children with all disabilities.

Parents of children with conditions as diverse as Downs Syndrome, Autism, hormone deficiencies and genetic disorders have all attended the sessions.

But co-founder Melissa Sheard, from Doris Field Close, Headington, believed more people could benefit from the scheme.

Mrs Sheard, who has a three-year-old boy with a rare chromosone disorder, said: "I set HIPPOS up with a couple of parents because we could not find any other group in Oxford that was a support group for parents or carers of disabled children.

"We usually get about 10 parents. It stops them feeling so isolated.

"It means they can ask about things such as filling out forms, blue badges and about places to go on holiday.

"The feedback has been very positive. We know there are lots more families with disabled children out there and we just want them to come along.

"We would love to at least double the size of the group. "Everybody is welcome, and people can come as often or as little as they want."

Issues discussed include disabled-friendly playgroups, and how to claim for benefits.

The group is free of charge and toys are available for children, while parents talk through their problems, share tips or listen to a guest speaker.

HIPPOS member Elsa Gill, from Downside Road, Headington, who has a three-year-old son with Downs Syndrome, said: "It is really good to chat through the things that might be worrying you, and talk to other parents who know what it feels like to have a child with special needs."

To find out more, call 07950 125 810.