National charity 4Children has launched a major new inquiry into family life in the UK. Chaired by Esther Rantzen CBE, the Family Commission seeks to explore and improve understanding of the reality of family life today.

The Family Commission has been launched in recognition of the fact that family circumstances have a dramatic impact on a child's ability to meet their full potential later in life. The Commission will be looking at a variety of issues that affect families, ranging from financial difficulties to achieving a positive work-life balance.

In addition to hosting a series of regional consultations with focus groups, academics and professionals who work with children and families, the Commission is also inviting members of the public to input their views into a national consultation. So, whether you think that an expansion of free childcare is a must or that fathers should be more involved in separated families, please take five minutes to let the Commission know your thoughts.

The survey can be found at www.theFamilyCommission.org.uk.You can also keep up to date with the Family Commission and join in the debate via the Blog.

Esther Rantzen CBE, Chair of the Family Commission said: "The Family Commission is a vital Inquiry that has tremendous potential to support the needs of families in the UK. But we need the help of communities, individuals, parents and children to ensure we get our priorities right and campaign for issues that really matter.

The findings of the Commission will be brought together in a policy report which will be launched in autumn 2010.