ARE relationships becoming difficult and stressful in your home? If so, Blackpool's newly developed Family Mediation Service can lend a helping hand.

The scheme was officially launched by Blackpool Social Services this month to help to prevent irreparable damage in families where relations have broken down and children have become distressed and vulnerable.

Manager of the new service, Jane Horobin, said: "We are really proud of this service. It is a unique way of working. We don't know of any other area in the country that has employed someone full-time to set up and run a service like this, and that makes it very special.

"When there is a family rift it causes immense hurt and pain on all sides. When they're cut off from a loving family environment, young people can become socially excluded and become a target for anyone who wants to exploit them. That's why I feel so passionate about Family Mediation."

Any family under stress is eligible for Family Mediation -- including families where there are step-parents, extended families and impending divorce.

A young person who is experiencing relationship difficulties at home is extremely vulnerable and at risk of offending, becoming disturbed or even homeless. The role of the family mediator would be to prevent this from happening by re-establishing communication before such problems arise.

Jane added: "We often blame young people, but they aren't necessarily the ones with the problem. As adults we think we're right and we can be so busy we don't listen to them.

"Young people want to be heard and that is why this service is so effective."

Family Mediation will take referrals from GPs, nurses, teachers, social workers, youth workers and anyone working with young people. For further details call (01253) 477351 or 477271.

Jane is also looking for people who would like to become volunteers to help her expand the service. Full training is provided.