Families facing relationship breakdown in Bude and the surrounding areas will now have better access to mediation services locally, with legal aid funding from the Legal Services Commission.

Many couples seeking divorce or separation are struggling to move forward due to rising debts and a crumbling housing market brought on by the credit crunch. Mediation is an alternative route for resolving problems; children's arrangements and financial issues can be resolved more swiftly and with less cost.

North Devon Family Mediation Service is now able to expand their services to families going through a breakdown in the Bude area. The new outreach service, provided at the Neetside Community Centre, means that more people on low incomes could get the help and advice they need.

With the help of trained mediators from North Devon Family Mediation Service, families in the community will be able to sort out arrangements with children, finance, and dividing of assets. The mediators act as impartial third parties, who assist people to make their own decisions about their future.

"We are delighted to be able to offer an outreach service in Bude as an extension to our main service in Barnstaple," said service manager Amelia Tucker-Jones from North Devon Family Mediation Service.

"January and February can be a difficult time for couples, either those considering separation or already apart but this year could be particularly stressful given the current economic climate. It is important to seek help as early as possible; problems can often be resolved quickly with solutions tailored for each individual family.

"We are able to offer free legally aided mediation for those who qualify and operate at cost for those on higher incomes. Mediation is less costly than protracted litigation and often achieves better outcomes."

Paul Davies, National Relationship Director of the Legal Services Commission said: "People living in the Bude area are fortunate to have North Devon Family Mediation Service to help them when relationships break down. I'm keen to encourage people to choose mediation, as it is a much more constructive, calm and less costly alternative to going to court when a relationship breaks down.

"Not only is mediation less costly for the tax payer, it is considerably faster in settling disputes, taking around four months."

To make an appointment with North Devon Family Mediation Service, call 01271 321888.