Children get a flying start at new centre
MORE families will get help with everything from childcare to breast feeding and even debt advice thanks to the opening of a new Flying Start centre in Bridgend county.
Built within Garth Primary School in Garth, Maesteg, the Bridgend council-run facility will offer free high-quality part-time childcare for two to three year olds, an enhanced health visiting service, access to parenting programmes and help with early language development.
An open day was held last week so that parents could take a look around the centre, which will have capacity to look after 12 children each weekday morning, and another 12 during afternoons.
The new setting will be fully operational later this year, but before then parents are invited to find out more and register for places by initially contacting their health visitor.
Parents can also take their children to the centre and stay with them to enjoy stay and play sessions. The free sessions, which involve fun activi- ties and a snack, are being held twice a week up until the summer holidays.
Councillor Hailey Townsend, council Cabinet Member for Chil- dren’s Social Services and Equalities, said: “The Flying Start programme is a Welsh Government-funded initiative that aims to provide families with better opportunities for their children.
“Well over 1,000 children in Bridgend County Borough have already benefited from Flying Start, and it’s wonderful to see it expand into another local community.
“The support offered by Flying Start is vast, and I would certainly recommend anyone living in a Flying Start area to find out more.
“From an extensive midwifery service, to breast feeding advice, weaning groups, and baby massage, Flying Start offers vital additional support for mothers before and after birth.
“And the support continues as your child grows into a toddler, with potty clubs, free childcare and numerous other services on hand to aid their development so that they can get the best possible start in life and be ready for school.”
She added: “The Flying Start Family Support Team can also provide advice on issues such as housing, budgeting, and debt.”
To find out more contact Tina Haddon on 01656 815168.