The Mothers' Union (MU) is calling for more to be done to support couples in building healthy, lasting relationships, as the charity continues to commit thousands of volunteers to marriage and relationship support initiatives across the UK each year.

Contrary to popular belief, and despite significant social changes, marriage is thriving and continues to benefit both the couple and society, according to MU.

Research has shown that married couples are more likely to be happier, healthier and wealthier, and demonstrates marriage to be important to society's stability and to the wellbeing of individuals and families.

Yet, MU notes that marriage is viewed as 'romantic' rather than beneficial to couples, families and communities. With the most common time for a marriage to face breakdown now being at around 7 years, and the highest divorce rates among the 25 - 29 year age group, it is apparent more needs to be done to support couples throughout their marriage.

This is particularly important when they face life-changing stress points such as having children, or economic hardship.

Nearly 90 per cent of all young people still aspire to marriage, while it is still faith-based charities and clergy that provide the majority of marriage preparation and support to a wider spectrum of relationships.

"Whilst considerable focus is put on weddings, and on marriage preparation", said Rosemary Kempsell, World Wide President of MU, "We believe that more could and should be done to affirm married relationships and provide ongoing support to marriages before they run into problems."

Government too is placing an increasing burden of taxation and dual working ethic on couples.

The MU believes that more could be done by state and church alike to support couples, both those married in church and those married in civil ceremonies. "We would like to see more investment in supporting and promoting the enormous value of stable relationships."