Thursday, 11 May 2006

Turner backs 'Children in the Middle'

United Future's family spokesperson, Judy Turner MP, is applauding today's pre-Budget announcement of a new Courts programme to help children caught in the middle of a divorce or custody dispute.

And she says the 'Children in the Middle' programme is so good it should be made mandatory in Family Court proceedings.

The Government has committed over $6 million until 2009 and $1.7 million each year after that for the programme, which will be available free of charge to up to 15,000 parents per year with dependent children who are contemplating or undergoing separation.

Mrs Turner says the programme, which provides free counselling for parents on how to avoid hurting their children during separation proceedings, has been under trial in the North Shore Family Court and 97% of those who've taken part say it should be compulsory.

"I've drafted a private Members' Bill which would make the necessary changes to the Family Court and I urge the Government to pick up this Bill and action it.

" 'Child in the Middle' is a huge success and we should make sure we continue and expand it now," she says.

ENDS

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