How Does the Family Support Process Work?

At Our Lady and St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, we understand that family life can sometimes be challenging, and there may be times when you need a little extra support. We believe that asking for help is a positive step, and we are here to listen, offer advice and work alongside you to find the right support for your family.

1. Talk to us

If you are worried about your child or experiencing difficulties at home, please speak to a member of the school team. You can contact your child's class teacher, our SENCO or our Child and Family Support Worker. You do not need to wait until a situation becomes more difficult before asking for help.

2. We listen and explore your needs together

We will take time to listen to your concerns, understand your family's circumstances and identify what is going well, as well as any areas where you may need additional support. We will work with you to identify practical steps that could make a difference.

3. We agree on the right support

Depending on your family's needs, support might include advice from school staff, help with attendance or emotional wellbeing, parenting advice, practical assistance or signposting to other services. Where additional support is needed, we can discuss the Early Help process with you and explore whether support from other professionals or agencies would be beneficial.

4. We work together

With your involvement, we will work alongside you and, where appropriate, other professionals to provide coordinated support. This may involve agreeing on a plan, identifying achievable goals and making sure everyone understands their role in supporting your family.

5. We review progress

We will check how things are going, celebrate progress and consider whether any further support is needed. Our aim is to help families feel supported, strengthen children's wellbeing and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

What is Early Help?

Early Help means providing support as soon as a difficulty emerges, rather than waiting until it becomes more serious. It can help families address challenges relating to parenting, behaviour, emotional wellbeing, attendance, relationships or other circumstances affecting a child's life.

Early Help is voluntary, and we will involve you in discussions about the support being considered. Where appropriate, we will seek your consent before making referrals or sharing information. However, if we have concerns about a child's safety or welfare, we may need to share information with relevant agencies in line with our safeguarding responsibilities.

You do not have to face difficulties alone. If you feel your family would benefit from additional support, please contact the school. We are here to listen without judgement and work with you to find a way forward.

Speak to Miss Stewardson if you think your family could be supported in this way.