A pilot scheme which helps separating or divorcing couples from low-income families handle spouse maintenance has processed nearly 40 cases in the first two months since its introduction, taking less than a month on average to close a file.

In October last year, authorities introduced a programme through the Community Care Fund to offer free mediation services.

The initiative, set to last for three years, aims to process a total of 1,200 cases and help 2,400 people who are going through a separation or divorce.

Alice Mak, secretary for home and youth affairs, said the scheme handled 38 cases relating to alimony as of the end of November.

"Sixty percent of the cases have either reached an agreement or partially made an agreement, meaning there's an outcome from the mediation. For those completed cases, it takes roughly 24 days from opening to closing a file," she said during an exclusive interview with RTHK.

"We can see that these mediation services have indeed helped some divorcees to reach maintenance agreements. Some of the participants told us that they found it helpful and they would recommend programme to those in need around them."

As for the remaining 40 percent, Mak said the administration would look into possible follow-up actions after collecting more data.

Separately, the minister said her bureau and the Family Council will jointly organise the "Hong Kong Excellent Family Awards" in the second quarter, with participants being judged on a number of areas.

She said families must show how well they support each other and whether they have experiences on educating the next generation which are worthy of being referenced, among other criteria.