By KLTV Newsdesk
A new survey has just been launched in Kirklees which aims to shape future services for families across local communities.
Kirklees Council wants to hear your views on the way children, young people and families are supported when they might need some additional help.
Their new ‘Early Support’ offer is designed to help families at the earliest opportunity so that their needs don’t become more serious further down the line.
The council says they have been working with a wide range of partners to develop the new service.
Now, the next steps are being taken in ensuring Early Support across Kirklees is the best it can be.
What Does the Survey Cover?
It covers a vast array of services and 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.
In addition to the survey, people can give their opinion via a series of online sessions which are open to everyone.
The council says that all responses will be taken into account before final proposals are drawn up for future Early Support.
All the details on how to take part and have your say can be found in this downloadable PDF.
‘Community Strengths’
Cllr Carole Pattison, Cabinet Member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities, said: “We already work closely with many partners, people and organisations to make sure there is excellent support for those who need it.
“We are looking to build on those community strengths and provide help to children, young people and families in the areas where they live.
“Early Support is at its most effective when it is flexible, offered in different locations and can be accessed in different ways.
“Our aim is to provide the best possible support for our residents: from before being born through to adulthood.”
‘Real and Lasting Difference’
Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet Member for Children, said: “Thousands of families are helped with everything from midwifery services, parenting and early years support through to learning opportunities for children and young people and support for adults which might include advice on housing, benefits and accessing food.
“The feedback we receive will be vital in telling us what people really want and how we can have the most positive impact.
“It will help us to give children and young people the best start in life and make a real and lasting difference to our families.”