JOANNE Oliver is experiencing independence for the first time in her life thanks in part to the Argus.

The 17-year-old from Abertillery is disabled and until recently has relied totally on her mother Christine.

A cerebral palsy-sufferer and wheelchair-user, she is profoundly deaf and uses sign language to communicate.

Mrs Oliver, 48, takes Joanne swimming and to visit friends once a week but after living in the area for seven years having moved up from Bristol, mother and daughter were experiencing considerable isolation.

In August 2006 the charity Barnado's issued an appeal through various media, including the Argus, to help her.

It has set up a scheme for "link carers" to give parents and dependents a break, and thanks to that appeal, a couple came forward.

Now with the support of David and Belinda Morris from Ebbw Vale, mother and daughter are enjoying a bit of independence for the first time in years.

Joanne spends six hours with the couple one day a month.

"It can be quite hard when it is just the two of us at home, so this is a real break," said Mrs Oliver, of Glandwr Street.

"She really enjoys her time with them and comes back full of it."

"It's a real life-line for both of us and has improved the quality of our lives.

"On the first day she went out with the Morris' I went on a mountain walk, which I couldn't have done with Jo."

And the Morris' say they are delighted to be learning new skills.

"We're thoroughly enjoying it," said Mr Morris, 47.

"We've got two daughters in their 20's so it's really nice for Jo - she's had the chance to go out shopping with them, and we are all becoming more skilled at sign language."

The arrangement began just before Christmas after as the link process takes 12 months to put into place.

Mrs Oliver said she would urge anyone with some spare time to get involved in the link project.

"I have friends with disabled children who are crying out for support."