During term time we run groups for families supported by Home-Start in South Cambridgeshire (on Mondays), Buntingford (on Wednesdays) and Royston (on Thursdays). The sessions run for 90 minutes to two hours.
Family Support Group
When & Where?
Who are they for?
We run three family support groups (in Royston, Buntingford and South Cambridgeshire) for families supported by our Home-start scheme with children under the age of 5.
Why are they needed?
Many families feel isolated in their community, with no family nearby, they find it hard to make friends and build up a local support network. Attending one of our groups is a good way to get to know other local families in a safe, supportive and non-judgemental setting.
What do we do?
We offer a relaxed friendly environment in which children can play with age-appropriate toys as part of a structured plan to support learning and development through play. Volunteers are there to facilitate their play and to support the parents.
Examples of children’s activities:
Planting seeds
Sponge printing
Making books
Fruit printing
Teddy bears picnic
Making bird feeders
Easter Egg hunt
A variety of interesting and fun activities are also available for parents to take part in if they wish. These can vary from arts and crafts to learning about child safety or practising healthy-eating recipes.
Examples of Parents’ activities:
Pamper session – scalp massage
Painting water colours
Healthy cooking/recipes
Making Easter flowers
Police Community Support Officer visit for child safety week
Library visitor
Family centre visitor
Knitting/crocheting
Singing
Yoga
Making necklaces
Mindfulness colouring
Refreshments are always available along with a friendly ear if needed.
“My daughter and I can be ourselves in a non-judgemental environment. Great support from other mums and amazing volunteers.”
How does Family Support Group link with Home-Visiting?
- Home-visiting and family group support can work really well together, providing an opportunity for families to meet like-minded other families in in a safe, confidential setting.
- Family support group is also available to families who are not supported by home-visiting, following an invitation from one of our caring, expert co-ordinators.
- Some families begin with home-visiting support only and when they become more confident, sometimes with the support of their volunteer, they feel able to access family support group.
- We are often able to continue to support families at family support group after their home-visiting support has ended (subject to availability)
Our Latest Annual Report provides insight into:
- Expanding family support
- Early childhood initiatives
- Celebrating our 40th anniversary
- Our financial position and challenges
- Fundraising activities and partnerships
- Achievements of our Family Support Groups
- Inspiring family stories
…and much more. Read or download the full report to learn more.
