Help new parents understand family money

The news that family finance information packs from the Financial Services Authority (FSA) are to be distributed by midwives to soon-to-be parents, has today been welcomed by The Children's Mutual (www.thechildrensmutual.co.uk). One of the leading Child Trust Fund (CTF) providers, The Children's Mutual said the packs were essential as many families aren't aware of all the benefits and financial help available when they become parents.

David White, Chief Executive of The Children's Mutual, said: "Becoming a new parent is daunting at the best of times and money is just one of the balls that families have to juggle. Anything which helps to explain the money that parents and their children are entitled to is very welcome and should help create a deeper understanding of family finances. We're delighted that information on the Child Trust Fund has been included in the pack. As the UK's first universal savings product, it is great that parents will get a chance to read up on the scheme before they have their children so they can make informed decisions early on."

For families keen to get a grip on family finances before they receive their FSA packs, The Children's Mutual issues its own free guide to money: The Essential Guide to Money for Parents. Available by calling 0800 040 7262, the guide covers everything from Government benefits and Tax Credits to free NHS services. It also provides a handy step-by-step account of how to claim them.