Find out more about the Family Support Service at Hertfordshire's Family Centres

We are pleased to share updated information about the Hertfordshire Family Support Service (FSS) and how you can refer families who may benefit from our support.

The Family Support Service works with families from pregnancy until their child starts primary school (0–5 years). Our aim is to ensure every child has the best possible start in life, supporting their development, wellbeing, and resilience. We offer a blend of universal, emerging needs, and targeted support, tailored to each family’s circumstances.

What the Family Support Service Offers

Universal Support (available to all families)

We provide a range of accessible services, including:

• Free antenatal sessions such as Preparing for Parenthood, plus community events
• *A wide selection of drop-in groups and activities, including Baby Groups, Active Rhyme Time, Stay and Play, and Physical Fun
• Support with breastfeeding and introducing solid foods
• Self-Weigh Stations for babies at key ages (16 weeks, 20 weeks, 8 months, 12 months)
• Free vitamin collections from Family Centre Hubs and some groups
• *Family First Aid courses
• Regular updates, information, and guidance via our Facebook and Instagram pages

*Some groups have a small charge; however, free access is available where cost may be a barrier.

Support for Emerging Needs

We offer short-term, tailored 1:1 or small-group support for families experiencing:

• Social isolation, low confidence, English as an additional language, or low-level mental health needs
• Challenges with healthy eating, toileting, or sleep routines
• Support with Speech and Language development
• SEND support via SEND Champions, drop-in sessions, and small-group programmes
• Support for parents of children aged 0–2 or 3+ to build communication, independence, and school readiness

Targeted Family Support

Families with more complex or sustained needs may be offered 1:1 support or small-group sessions on:

• Perinatal support
• Infant Massage
• Parental Emotional Wellbeing
• Domestic Abuse
• Physical health, home safety, and supervision
• Routines, guidance, and boundaries

We also offer a range of parenting courses, where parents can learn new strategies and receive valuable peer support.

District Contact Numbers (Professionals Only)

You are welcome to contact the service directly for advice or to discuss a family’s needs.

Also, find out about your local partnership meeting here: Partnership Newsletter, Summer 2026 Landing Page

How to Refer a Family

Families must be aware of the referral and give consent before a request for support is submitted.

Referrals can be made online via:
Hertfordshire Family Centre Referral
hertfordshire.gov.uk: Family Centre Referral