RELATE in Wellington and Taunton is anticipating a peak in calls this month from couples whose relationships have reached crisis point over the summer.

Last year, it saw a ten per cent increase in the area compared to the average month and it is expecting a similar surge this year.

Relate counsellors are urging anyone experiencing relationship issues to seek support before heading to 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 this is something counselling can help with.

According to the latest data, 91 per cent of Relate’s relationship counselling clients said their communication was ‘a bit better’ or ‘much better’ after attending relationship counselling, and 84 per cent felt able to cope with any difficulties they might face in the future.