Brooke calls for Greater Support for Parents

3.08.49pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 20th Sep 2006

Local MP, Annette Brooke, has successfully passed a set of proposals which place the interests of children at the centre of government policy on family life.

Annette's policy paper 'Stronger Families, Brighter Futures' was overwhelmingly endorsed at the Liberal Democrat conference this Monday. The paper addresses the wide-ranging issues affecting children and families including helping people prepare for the responsibilities of parenthood and supporting families in crisis, such as the consequences of separation and divorce.

Innovative flexible working schemes and a Maternity Income Guarantee will help maintain a family's financial and emotional stability, particularly during the formative early years of a child's life that so powerfully influence later life chances.

Annette, the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Children, Young People and Families, said:

"If we are to provide for the well-being of children, supporting families must be a top priority. Parenting is a skilled job, and preparation and support is vital.

"Up to a fifth of children and adolescents experience mental health problems at some time in their lives, and difficulties in family life and relationships are a major contributor.

"Government, rather than interfering in individuals' lives, should support parents as they face the new challenges of modern family life.

"Labour focuses on tackling symptoms rather than causes, stigmatising 'problem' families and driving change from the centre. We believe that support must be preventative, available to all and locally led."