Early years and parenting changes through Coronavirus
Lambeth children’s centres continue to support large numbers of families with very young children, through phone calls, distribution of food and home learning packs, and online activities and resources. Many families not previously known to children’s centres are requesting support through the new single point of access phone number and online form here www.lambeth.gov.uk/coronavirus-cyp (children’s centres). Nadine Bennett, Better Start Area Manager in North Lambeth, has given a brief account of the way her team are supporting families – click here to view.
Lambeth Parenting team are continuing to receive referrals for parenting support, and are able to offer families online courses including the positive parenting programme and tailored support around co-parenting. You can make referrals for families here www.lambeth.gov.uk/parenting, or email Parenting Lead Helen McAree hmcaree@lambeth.gov.uk with any queries.
The Families Information Service are continuing to update the Families Information Directory with services and support available to children, young people and families at this time. They are also responding to lots of enquiries, often about childcare. Parents and carers who are key workers or whose child meets vulnerability criteria can apply for an early years childcare place here: www.lambeth.gov.uk/coronavirus-cyp (childcare provision).
Commissioners within the service are also in regular contact with health colleagues, including the health visiting service, the Family Nurse Partnership and the infant feeding service. Health visitors and family nurses are continuing with their usual service offer to families of babies and young children in line with NHS guidance, with an increase in video and phone contact where this can safely replace face to face visits. Lambeth’s offer of support for women needing support with infant feeding remains strong, with our breastfeeding peer supporter service available for one to one support via phone / online, as well as daily online breastfeeding support groups. More information here: www.lambeth.gov.uk/coronavirus-cyp (early years health services).