RELATIONSHIP counsellors and lawyers are expecting a spike in calls this month from couples whose relationships are in trouble.

Relate in Taunton and West Somerset is expecting a surge in contacts in September after last year saw a 10 per cent increase in the area compared to the average as relationships hit crisis point over the summer.

Counsellors are urging anyone experiencing relationship issues to seek support before heading to the divorce lawyers, who are also inundated at this time of year.

The most common reason people go to Relate is because of poor communication and figures show that often improves following counselling.

Relate counsellor Dee Holmes, said: "If you’re already having problems in your relationship, then the pressure of juggling work, keeping the kids entertained and spending concentrated time with your partner over the summer can tip things over the edge.

"Tempers can get frayed and by the time schools re-open, some relationships are in a pretty bad state."

Relate’s research has found one in five people are in a distressed relationship and that parents with children under the age of 16 are the most likely to be affected.

Ms Dee Holmes added: "With kids off school over the summer, they’re more likely to witness any arguments or tensions and this can have a negative impact on their wellbeing as well as on their concentration when they’re back in the classroom.

"While it’s never too late to ask for support, the earlier you can tackle problems in your relationship, the more likely you are to overcome them.

"Talking to somebody objective such as a counsellor can really help, so don’t hesitate to contact Relate."

For more details or to book an appointment call 0300-7729681 or click here.