A network of Sandwell Family Hubs has launched this week to provide the services families may need in one place, developing existing children’s centres to provide an even wider range of services.
The service will support families from conception to when their child is 19 (or 25 with special educational needs and disabilities), with a key focus on offering a great start to life for babies and toddlers.
Yesterday’s (Monday 17 July) launch – which included a special launch event held at Rowley Regis Family Hub in Dudley Road – marks the first phase in the development of the hubs.
Councillor Simon Hackett, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, and Michael Jarrett, Director – Education, joined professionals and families at the hub to celebrate the launch. A choir from The Westminster School provided entertainment and Sandy Bear unveiled the Family Hub sign.
From this week (Monday 17 July), seven Family Hubs will be operating across Sandwell at the borough’s existing children’s centre sites, with an expanded, improved offer for families.
Over the coming months, a network of smaller ‘spoke’ hubs will also be set up, to help provide services and support as locally as possible for families.
All Family Hubs have trained professionals. Families will be able to access a variety of services, including:
- parenting support
- early childhood education
- emotional wellbeing support
Councillor Simon Hackett said: “Our children’s centres have grown, they are a key part of our community and these Family Hubs will further develop our offer for local families, providing a much-needed resource across our six towns. We believe that every family in Sandwell deserves to thrive, and we are committed to providing the services and support that might be needed for them to do so.”
Visit the Sandwell Family Hubs webpage for more details and to find your nearest Family Hub.