ALLOW me to comment on the Problem Of The Week item in Women on Tuesday, August 2.

I was very concerned to read the question from the reader A B who stated she had "tried attending Relate but found it too expensive."

Relate in York does not charge any of its clients. We ask our adult clients that they consider making a voluntary contribution towards our costs.

We suggest some contribution levels that may be considered based upon a sliding scale of earnings.

Many people feel they can only afford a small contribution and that is absolutely fine.

We strive to provide our specialist support to all those who need it irrespective of their ability to contribute towards the cost.

We set no minimum and the number of counselling sessions provided is not affected in any way by the size of the contribution made.

As York's principal relationship counselling agency it is very important for us to ensure there are no misunderstandings around cost that might present a barrier to anyone accessing the help they need.

Joe McGuinness,

Director, Relate York and Harrogate,

Pavement,

York.

Updated: 11:20 Friday, August 12, 2005