Families are invited to a series of special events showcasing the support on offer at Lincolnshire’s children’s centres.
The first event takes place at Lincoln North Children’s Centre on Tuesday 27 June. Between 10am and 3pm visitors will be able to enjoy a range of engaging activities, such as story time and baby massage. Families are also encouraged to bring sandwiches for a special teddy bears picnic lunch. Refreshments will be served throughout the afternoon, and staff will be on hand to answer any questions about the services available.
The event also marks the official launch of the Family Hubs programme in Lincolnshire, which looks to build on the success of local children’s centres. Created by the Department for Education and Department for Health and Social Care, the programme aims to adapt how and where information, advice and help are delivered to ensure families get the right support, at the right time, in the right place from pregnancy, through a child’s early years and up until they are 19 (or 25 for young people with special educational needs and disabilities).
Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services, said: “It’s well-known that a child’s early years have a significant impact on their later life. So, we want all Lincolnshire children to have a happy, healthy start in life and be well prepared for school.
“Our children’s centres are designed to help all families with children from birth to five. All are free to join, with each offering a variety of activities, free drop-in sessions and helpful services. Any adult caring for a child can access the centres, including grandparents, foster carers and childminders.
“Not only can children's centres help give your child a great start in life, but they also offer fantastic support for parents and carers themselves, helping them to be healthy before, during and after pregnancy. So, if you’re a parent or carer with a young child, make sure you find out what your local children's centre has to offer and get involved.
“Recently, Lincolnshire was one of 75 local authorities chosen for the government’s Family Hubs programme. This will mean additional investment, allowing us to build upon the support already provided by our children’s centres and the early help team, with the introduction of some additional services. That will help ensure that families continue to get the support they need, when they need it, particularly during the crucial first 1,001 days of a child’s life.”
Similar events are planned at other selected children’s centres over the coming months.
Upcoming celebratory events:
27 June: Lincoln North Children’s Centre
12 July: Grantham Swingbridge Children’s Centre
19 July: Sleaford Children's Centre
6 October: St Giles Children’s Centre and Birchwood Children’s Centre
27 October: Boston Children’s Centre
24 November: Mablethorpe Children’s Centre and Skegness Children’s Centre
29 November: Gainsborough Children’s Centre
6 December: Spalding Children’s Centre
For further information of the support available to local families, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/familyhubs