Plans approved for a new way of helping local families
Exciting plans for a new way of supporting Kirklees families have now been given approval.
They will bring together the work of many organisations such as health, social care, education and community groups so that families have even better access to support when and where they need it.
Newly-created Family Hubs will deliver a wide range of help, support and advice for an age range of pre-birth through to 19 years (or up to 25 years for people with special educational needs and/or disabilities), along with support for parents.
The main aim is to identify children, young people and families who need support so that they can be helped at an early stage, preventing their needs from becoming more serious.
Kirklees Cabinet agreed the proposals after considering views from hundreds of people, including many of those who will access services.
The different kinds of support could include midwifery, health visiting, school nursing, family support, parenting, early years, youth work and play, voluntary and community services, schools and community hubs, mental health and wellbeing, housing, benefits advice and support into employment.
Mel Meggs, Strategic Director for Children’s Services, said:
“Our intention is to bring together different organisations and make sure we offer the right support in the right place at the right time.
We are building on the services that already work well, further improving the long-term outcomes of our children, young people and families.
The support will be incredibly varied and will be accessible to thousands of people across local communities.
Now that agreement is in place, we look forward to working with families – including children and young people – to fine-tune our plans and make sure they fully reflect the needs of those who use them.”