Your chance to have a say on Family Hubs

People in Sunderland are being asked their views on plans to develop family hubs across the city.

Sunderland is one of 75 local authorities to secure Government funding for the hubs which will help services – such as midwifery, health visitors, mental health support and services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities–to provide support in one place.

The hubs aim to provide a ‘wrap-around’ service for the whole family from conception, through a child’s early years, until they are 19, or 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities.

Cllr Louise Farthing, cabinet member for children, learning and skills at Sunderland City Council, said: "We want every family in Sunderland to have the support they need when they need it.

Family Hubs mean prioritising the crucial first days of children’s lives, tackling any issues before they escalate and reducing disadvantages.

“We really want to hear people' s views on what services and support they would like to see provided in the new hubs."

Jill Colbert, chief executive of Together for Children, which delivers children’s services on behalf of the City Council, added: "We're excited to be part of the roll out of Family Hubs .” Sunderland's four Family Centres–Bunny hill inHyl ton Castle, Thorney Close in the West, The Rainbow Centre in Washington and Coalfield Family Centre in H et ton–will all change to Family Hubs, with plans to open a fifth in the East of the city.

To take part in the consultation, go to https://www.togetherforchildren.org.uk/family-hub-consult