By Nathan Findlay
Plans for a new way of helping local families in Kirklees have now been given the green light.
The support will consist of health, social care, education, and community groups. The new Family Hubs will provide families in Kirklees with extra support when and where they need it.
The newly created Family Hubs will deliver a wide range of help, advice, and support. It will cover the ages from pre-birth up to 19 years old (or up to 25 for people with special educational needs and/or disabilities), along with support for the parents.
The main aim is to identify families and children who need support so that they can be helped at an early stage rather than leaving it until after their needs become more serious.
There will be a variety of support, which includes 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.
Providing local families with extra support is an amazing community achievement for Kirklees.
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.”