News
Troubled families to get support
1 Feb 2011
David Cameron has pledged to give families with multiple problems, such as unemployment or drug or alcohol dependency, extra support in a pilot scheme in six to ten areas across the country.
"Troubled" families should not be abandoned and people should not "shy away" from discussing the family's contribution to society, he said.
Parents with bad relationships were more likely to have a child in poverty, failing at school and ending up in prison or out of work, he argued.
The scheme will be headed by Emma Harrison, head of welfare-to-work training company A4e, who will also take on the role of “family champion”.
Speaking to the family guidance charity Relate, the Prime Minister said
What works is focused, personalised support, someone the family trusts coming into their home to help them improve their lives step-by-step, month-by-month.
In addition, Children’s Minister Sarah Teather announced £30m funding over four years to provide preventative support for children and families where relationships break down. Counselling and relationship support sessions will be provided through Sure Start Children’s Centres amongst other services, a move called for in 4Childrens’ national consultation, The Family Commission.
Read the coverage from the BBC and Nursery World.
