New three-pronged strategy will offer lifeline support to families

A radical three-pronged approach to childcare has been unveiled in Perth and Kinross.

A trio of agencies have been commissioned by the local authority to focus on specific areas of help such as “intensive” family support, aid for children living with substance misuse and early-years parenting.

Aberlour Childcare Trust together with Home-Start Perth and Barnardo’s have been contracted to provide home-based help aimed at securing nurturing environments for children.

The intensive programme, to be led by Aberlour Childcare Trust, will offer a lifeline to families with children aged five to 11, engaging with parents to improve their capacity to care for youngsters, while also providing practical support.

Barnardo’s will look at children living in households where there are issues with drug and alcohol misuse.

It will also provide help for those living with “poor parental mental health” and domestic violence.

Home-Start Perth will provide the early-years parenting support service, which will work alongside parents with an unborn baby or child(ren) under five where an early intervention or prevention approach is needed.

Perth and Kinross Council’s lifelong learning committee vice-convener Callum Purves said: “The introduction of these partner agencies is great news for families in need of additional support in Perth and Kinross.

“The contracts the council has agreed with the three third sector organisations will provide them with a substantial period of time to develop their services and make a significant difference for families and our communities.”

From left, front: Claire Wilson of Barnardo’s, Councillor Callum Purves, Jacquie Pepper, deputy director of education and children’s services, and Sharon Cooper, education and children’s services. Back: Liz Nolan of Aberlour Childcare Trust and...