Families in Plymouth where parents have been out of work for a long time or children are not turning up at school are now more likely to get government funded support.

The city council has agreed to sign up to the so called troubled families initiative, which could give them four thousand pounds for each family they help.

It's estimated that in Plymouth there are 745 such families and the council could receive four thousand pounds for each one they help.

Councillor Nicky Williams says there are different practical steps they can take like ensuring that children are going to school by creating more walking buses, or offering support to those with mental health problems.