Our Offer of Early Help
Being a parent is one of the most important jobs there is – it is also one of the hardest. Parents are the key to giving children a happy and stable childhood, but as we all know there is no such thing as the perfect family and every family is unique with its own combination of strengths and weaknesses.
Sometimes we can all, in our families, get overwhelmed by what seems like endless challenges when it comes to juggling money, school, jobs, health and each other’s individual needs. And if that isn’t enough, life can sometimes throw other challenges at us, affecting our families; such as a mental or physical illness, long-term addiction, a job loss, or a bereavement. Even “joyful” events such as a new relationship, a house move or a new job can bring unexpected problems.
How we can help
We understand just how complicated family life can be and the different effects this can have on family members. From time to time there may be situations where you or someone in your family need extra help and support. We can of course, in times of need, turn to family and friends, but sometimes it may be easier to talk to someone who is impartial and this is where we may be able to help.
We have what we call an ‘offer of early help’. We appreciate that when things aren’t going well it can be hard to take those first steps to ask for support; it can leave us feeling ‘open and vulnerable’ – but the good thing is that you don’t have to ask for help – the offer of help is already there.
We suggest that in the first instance you talk to your child’s teacher; however we appreciate that you may find it easier to talk to Mr Moss or a member of our pastoral team, co-ordinated by Kerrie Bennett.
We will work with you to find a way forward for you and your family – there are many ways we can do this – it may be within school e.g. helping your child join an after school club or becoming a Play Leader. In other situations we may find that, with your permission, we need to tap into other organisations who have more expertise in certain areas e.g. bereavement, counselling. You can of course, if you prefer, contact these agencies yourself – we are happy to signpost you to these agencies.
If you click on this link you can find our Offer of Early Help, in more detail – you will see there is a variety of information and agencies mentioned – with so much information to read you may find a chat with us easier!
Click here to download our offer of early helpIf things aren’t right at home, please do come and talk to us; safe in the knowledge that the offer of help is already there and, by us working together, you will be able to find a way forward for you and your family.
Click here for helpful links for families Information about food, activities and wellbeing support in the area
Families Matter Newletter
Asthma UK – diagnosing children with asthma
Gloucestershire Family Information Service
