FAMILIES in a North-East town are to receive more support in a £4.75m pilot scheme.

Ed Balls, Minister for Schools, Children and Families, has unveiled a Support for All – the Families and Relationships Green Paper, which will be rolled out across ten areas of the country, including Hartlepool.

It sets out plans to help to prevent and resolve marriage and relationship breakdown, to support and recognise fathers and grandparents, to improve flexible working for families, and to give more targeted support to families in need.

In addition, the Government is to carry out a review into the family justice system in an effort to reduce conflict and promote earlier resolution of problems.

Mr Balls said: “Strong, stable families are the bedrock of our society. Families give children the love and security they need to grow up and explore the world, and the moral guidance and aspiration to make the most of their talents and be good citizens.

“Families are where most of us find the support and care necessary for a happy and fulfilling life, as children and adults, parents and grandparents, too.”

He added: “The Government is therefore strongly committed to supporting all parents, grandparents and carers in sustaining strong and resilient relationships.”