A HAMPSHIRE charity that supports parents has launched a campaign calling for an end to the "blame culture" which it believes discourages mums and dads from seeking help and support.

Parentline Plus, which has a base in Eastleigh, has launched its Just Ask campaign to ensure that every parent in the country feels entitled to support in times of crisis.

The charity's campaign comes after Hampshire was revealed as the poor parenting capital of the country, with mums and dads receiving 602 parenting orders to tackle their nuisance children during the last six years.

Now Parentline Plus, which offers parenting courses, a 24-hour support line and tailor-made one-to-one help, says many parents are reluctant to seek help, as they fear they will be seen as failing and unable to cope.

Dorit Braun, chief executive of Parentline Plus, said: "Our message is clear - parenting support needs to be freely available, and not just when things go wrong or when Government deems that a child has behaved in such a negative way that parents must be punished as a result."

The charity is calling for a public education campaign for parents and better support services that are tailormade to reflect the needs and cultural beliefs of all parents.