A SPECIAL event has been held in Blackburn to mark an initiative which works to ensure the right help and support is offered to children and families facing problems.

More than 70 key representatives from the council, the Early Intervention Foundation and the police signed a pledge of support to ensure the success of Blackburn with Darwen’s Early Help Strategy.

The event, attended by Blackburn Mayor Salim Mulla, highlighted the importance of early help for those who need it with a pledge to help for children and families when problems start to emerge or when there is a strong likelihood they will emerge in the future.

The aim of the three-year strategy is to give families the opportunity to stay in control or regain control of their circumstances.

Blackburn with Darwen Council children’s services boss Frank Connor said: “For some families difficulties arise which, if nipped in the bud early enough can stop them escalating into more serious problems.”