A NEW strategy to tackle "problem pupils" is being officially launched in Bury.

A range of agencies has contributed to Bury Council's new Behaviour Support Plan to support children with social, behavioural and emotional difficulties.

The plan will be unveiled today(Fri June 21) at Bury Town Hall before an audience of head teachers, social workers, and police and health representatives.

Councillor Steve Perkins, executive member for school standards, said that difficult behaviour by pupils affected society as a whole.

"We spend a significant proportion of our resources on supporting pupils with problems and this new plan recognises that the pattern of support needs to move away from reactive, exclusive services towards preventative and inclusive.

"We are committed to promoting positive behaviour and to raising achievement within an inclusive learning environment."

Harold Williams, the council's chief education officer, will introduce the plan. Fran Thomas, head of children's services, will speak about the council's latest Children in Need procedures.