Money problems ‘damaging marriages’

ALMOST two thirds of families experiencing marriage problems have financial difficulties, according to Catholic marriage counsellors, ACCORD.

Another third of their 4,000 clients in the first half of this year said that finance “was a serious concern”.

The agency is urging the Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald to keep their funding at existing levels as they can’t cope with the demand from families during this recession.

In a pre-budget submission to the Government, National Director of ACCORD, Ruth Barror said: “It is particularly important in these times that couples experiencing difficulties are able to access help. The average contribution paid by clients in 2011 for a professional service was under €12. Given their financial pressures, many couples simply cannot pay the going rate for a session, which can be anything from €50 to €70.

“We are concerned that if we are forced to cut back on our services, many couples who need help will not get it. People affected by the economic downturn will prioritise bread and butter issues over counselling. Yet this could be of special benefit to help them face the devastating effects on their relationships of redundancy, unemployment and a drop in living standards.”

ACCORD say it can offer a low rate because of voluntary professional services donated by ACCORD members, support from the Irish Episcopal Conference and Government funding.

Access to ACCORD, access to its services are based on a couple’s needs and not their ability to pay.