FAMILIES in East Lancashire can access essential advice and support thanks to a new service launched in Nelson.

The Surestart Bradley and Whitefield Children's Centre provides a service for early education, childcare, health and family support.

And they are now giving families the chance to receive free legal help on a variety of issues including debt, divorce, domestic violence and access.

Amanda Armer, from Surestart, said: "More and more families are now using the services at Beacon Centre and coming to us for support on a varying range of issues.

"We realised there was an need for expert advice and decided, with the help of the Legal Services Commission, to put something in place."

A specialist CAB adviser will be available for one day a fortnight. Contact Surestart Bradley and Whiltefield Children's Centre, The Beacon Centre, Maurice Street, Nelson or phone 01282 606333.