Every family is unique with its own combination of strengths and weaknesses. Any family can get overwhelmed by what seems like endless challenges when it comes to juggling money, school and each other’s needs. And sometimes families are disrupted by a change in circumstances such as a mental or physical illness, a job loss, or an addiction. Even “joyful” events such as a wedding or a new job can bring unexpected problems.
1. What is Early Help?
The purpose of early help is to prevent issues and problems from becoming serious and harmful to a child or young person, their family and community. When children and families need this extra support, they often need it quickly. Provision of early help support can be at all stages of a child’s life: pre-birth, during pregnancy, childhood or adolescence.
2. What does Early Help include?
Support for pupils which includes:
- Promoting good attendance and punctuality.
- Promoting self-esteem and confidence.
- Promoting positive behaviour and positive attitudes to learning.
- Providing individualised support.
Support for families which includes:
- Providing information and signposting to other services in the local area.
- Liaising with a range of external services such as housing and Family Support Workers.
- Assistance in completing paperwork and forms e.g. housing, foodbank vouchers, attendance and support at school and other agency meetings.
- Advice and support in promoting positive behaviour at home.
Below has been taken from our Safeguarding Policy which identifies a range of areas where support is available, the list is not exhaustive.
Clearwell Early Help Offer 2023
We work closely with Gloucestershire’s Family First who are our Early Help Co-ordinator is Georgina Lewis, who is based at the Cinderford office. Here is the Gloucestershire County Council link with advice and guidance.
Early Help – Advice, Guidance and Support – Gloucestershire County Council
For children and families who require early help they would normally liaise with our SENDCO who is Mrs Catherine Stirrup, Mrs Tarry (DDSL) or Mrs Griffiths (DSL).
Clearwell Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy S1 September 2023