Welcome

Dear Partners,

Welcome to the April edition of Families First News for Hertfordshire's early help professionals! 

As always, we have plenty of partnership news to share with you and this edition has a slightly health focused theme with lots of health related articles. In addition, our Spring Working Together in Early Help events are nearly all fully booked, with just a few spaces remaining on 14 May at Three Rivers District Council, so please book soon if you would like to attend this event. We also have an update on the Families First Partnership Programme and how this is being embedded in Hertfordshire, and much more.

Would you like to learn more about Families First or do you have any new team members? You may want to attend one of our Families First online Induction days which are held quarterly across the county and are open to all professionals. Find out more here.

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We hope you enjoy this edition of Families First News and please encourage your teams to sign up to receive their own copy!  Also, don't forget to take a look through our Learning and Development articles to see what is available for you and your teams.  Don't forget to check the local news pages and vacancies page, and please do forward any information on to colleagues.

The Development Team

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Update on Hertfordshire’s Families First Partnership Programme

An update on the development of Hertfordshire’s Family Help service

The plan and structure for integrated Family Help teams, bringing targeted early help and statutory social care together in Hertfordshire, has been developed through extensive co-design with the council’s workforce, and with children, young people and families. This has included detail around role clarity, practice foundations and team structures.

The model is currently going through the council’s governance structure and is anticipated to be in delivery by the end of 2026, supported by a comprehensive mobilisation and transition plan.

Wider programme development

Whilst we’re at the cusp of change delivering Family Help in Hertfordshire, work is continuing apace on developing the other elements of the Families First Partnership. We are fortunate in Hertfordshire be building on strong, well established multi-agency child protection practice. We are building on the principles of the Hertfordshire Family Safeguarding Model to create a single, unifying practice approach.

Work is continuing across our safeguarding partnership to scope out roles needed in the new Multi-Agency Child Protection Team (MACPT), ensuring alignment with the recently revised guidance from the Government. Our subject matter experts are playing a key part in scoping out roles, advising on how to embed best practice, and ensuring that the model aligns operationally for all lead organisations.

National programme updates

The Department for Education recently released updated guidance on the national Families First Partnership programme. The 2026-27 guidance marks a formal transition from design and pathfinder learning into full delivery across all safeguarding partnerships, with mandatory systemwide implementation expected by March 2027.

The new guidance sets out expectations for Family Help, Multi-Agency Child Protection and Family Networks. It also includes accountability mechanisms, detailed workforce expectations (especially around multi-agency and new roles), stronger statutory alignment and increased emphasis on Safeguarding Partnership accountability. We’ve produced a summary of the key elements that have been updated which we have been sharing with partners.

The Government has also recently updated two pieces of statutory guidance for Children’s Social Care and partners working to safeguard children. It has just published the Children’s Social Care National Framework (2026) and it has made a targeted update to: Working Together to Safeguard Children, reflecting its ongoing commitment to strengthening multi-agency help, support and protection.

Sharing updates

As we move into the implementation phase of these national reforms, the Families First Partnership Programme team are looking for opportunities to share updates with partners about the changes being implemented.

If your organisation has a regular newsletter, or run network events, where it would be good to share FFPP updates please contact our communications lead (contact details below) who will provide any resources you need or arrange a speaker.

Our subject matter experts are also a great source of information about the programme and will continue to cascade news and updates with colleagues in partner organisations.

Contact details for SMEs:  

• Education – Sharon Coubray, Coubray@hertfordshire.gov.uk
• Police – DCI Pete Howlett‑Bolton, howlett-bolton@herts.police.uk
• Health – Chris Harvey and Jen Sarsby, harvey2@nhs.net and jen.sarsby1@nhs.net
• Children’s Social Care – Jennifer Weeks, Weeks@hertfordshire.gov.uk
• Probation – Cheryl Jones, jones2@justice.gov.uk

Communications lead: Rebecca.cussens@hertfordshire.gov.uk

You can download a copy of the updated guidance from the DfE for the Families First Partnership Programme.

 

Young Carers Offer - now delivered by Hertfordshire County Council

From 1 April 2026, Hertfordshire County Council is proud to be delivering young carers support in-house, bringing this vital service fully within council provision as the contract with Carers in Hertfordshire came to an end.  This change strengthens our commitment to young carers by embedding support directly into council services, helping us work even more closely with children, families and partners across Hertfordshire.  Support for adult carers will continue to be delivered by Carers in Hertfordshire, with no change to that service. 

How can you help?  

We are asking all partners and professionals working with children, young people and families to continue playing a key role in identifying and supporting young carers. Our new Young Carers webpage provides new tools and guidance to help you identify and register young carers.   

To ensure accurate and consistent information is available across the system, we ask partners and stakeholders to:  

1. Display the ‘Could you be a Young Carer?’ poster (available in the professionals area of the website under resources) 
2. Update your webpages, resources, and internal procedures to reflect this change.
3. Link any references to Young Carers to the new Young Carers webpage.  
4.  Include information about these changes in your communications (e.g., newsletters). Suggested wording is available below. 

Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

As we approach Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week (4th–10th May), Talking Therapies would like to reconnect with local partners and services to highlight the free mental health support available through NHS Hertfordshire & Mid Essex Talking Therapies.

We know that the perinatal period can be a time of significant change and vulnerability. That’s why we prioritise all parents—whether biological or adoptive—for timely assessment and compassionate, evidence-based treatment.

You can download a leaflet outlining our perinatal support offer. Please feel free to share this with the families you work alongside. If printed copies would be helpful, we’d be very happy to arrange delivery—just let us know.

Throughout the week, we’ll also be releasing three short videos across our YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/@HPFTTalkingTherapies) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/hpfttalkingtherapies). Each video explores an important aspect of early parenthood, from the transition into becoming a parent or caregiver, to understanding baby blues, and the emotional side of motherhood. We’d really appreciate your support in helping these messages reach a wider audience, so please feel free to share the videos across your own channels and networks.  

FREE NHS Mental Health Awareness Training – register today!

Working together to improve mental health

Join Hertfordshire Talking Therapies for a free online Mental Health Awareness Training session during Mental Health Awareness Week 2026, taking place on Wednesday, 13th May (10-11am). This session will help raise awareness of common mental health challenges and equip you with practical tools and techniques to support colleagues struggling with pressures at work, service users navigating challenging lives, and friends or family members in need.

Improving your understanding of mental health problems could benefit many people around you. Click here to register.

In addition, we are hosting a programme of free live and interactive webinars throughout the week. Please see the attached poster which you are welcome to print, display, and share with your colleagues to help spread the word.

For more information, please visit: www.hpft-talkingtherapies.nhs.uk/mental-health-awareness-week

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Together, we can help ensure that no parent feels they have to navigate this time alone.

If there’s anything more we can do to support you or your team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’re always here to help. Contact: hpft.talkingtherapiescomms@nhs.net 

New Hertfordshire Teenage Pregnancy and Young Parents strategy

We are pleased to share the new Hertfordshire Teenage Pregnancy and Young Parents Strategy 2026 – 2028. The strategy sets out our shared ambitions to reduce unplanned teenage pregnancy, support young parents, address inequalities, and strengthen the confidence and skills of our workforce.

This strategy has been shaped through strong partnership working and the voices of young people and young parents across Hertfordshire. It outlines practical actions for prevention, support, education, and workforce development over the next two years.

To support professionals when working with young people around relationships and sexual health, you can check out our dedicated guidance hub here:
https://publichealth.hertscc.gov.uk/enews/rsheguidance/introduction/introduction

Please share with colleagues and don't hesitate to contact me if you would like to discuss this further in any operational team meetings.  

Thank you for your commitment to young people and young parents in Hertfordshire.  

Supporting a Healthy Pregnancy Masterclass

Beezees are excited to be offering support to women in pregnancy to lead a healthy lifestyle with our first ever masterclass:

Supporting a Healthy Pregnancy Masterclass on Monday 11th May 6pm - 7:30pm

• Guidance on nutrition during pregnancy
• Advice on how to stay active
• Tips on managing commons issues, including morning sickness, sleep and indigestion
• Signposting to other support services
• A chance to ask our expert team any questions

Sign up here now for free if you’re an expectant mum in Hertfordshire! 

 

You can also get a wider range of support and advice from the Love Your Bump team here

Find out more about Beezee by maximus here: Beezee Hertfordshire - Free Healthy Lifestyle Programmes

Safer Sleep to be added to EYFS

The Government is expected to update the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework in September 2026, setting out clear standards regarding safe sleeping for all infants and children.

Key messages for Early Years providers are to ensure babies are:

• Always placed on their backs to sleep on a clear & firm flat mattress
• Checked regularly while sleeping & dressed appropriately to avoid overheating

Providers should

• Be familiar with the Lullaby Trust guidance on safe sleeping
• Review and update your safer sleep policy in line with Lullaby Trust guidance
• Ensure all staff, including new starters, receive safer sleep training (such as that provided by Lullaby Trust or SANDS)
• Check sleep environments throughout the day to ensure they are clean and clear
• Keep up to date with national guidance and EYFS updates

(Department for Education article: Help for early years providers : Safer sleep)

NHS England: Encouraging people to use the right NHS service at the right time

As part of a series of campaigns by NHS England encouraging people to use the right NHS service at the right time, a suite of downloadable resources has been created. These resources help people get the care they need while easing pressure on both primary and emergency services: 

• NHS 111 campaign raises awareness of the 111 service when someone has an urgent but not life-threatening medical need
• Think Pharmacy First campaign highlights how pharmacists can now provide treatment or some prescription medicine
• NHS Talking Therapies campaign encourages people struggling with obsessions and compulsions, anxiety in social situations, flashbacks of a traumatic event and more
• NHS App campaign encourages use of the NHS App, by increasing awareness of the App and its functionality and driving knowledge of the key benefits to using it to access NHS health and care services at your fingertips
• GP Online Access campaign to encourage use of online forms to simply, securely and conveniently submit requests and symptoms to your GP practice online, through the NHS App or your GP practice website.

For any campaign specific queries, please contact england.campaigns@nhs.net

Introducing the NHS Healthy Start Scheme: Nourishing Families for a Healthier Future

Are you helping families you work with to cope with the rising cost of living and keeping to a healthy diet?  Did you know you can encourage them to apply for a weekly payment for fresh fruit, vegetables and milk through the NHS Healthy Start Scheme?

The Healthy Start Scheme is a government initiative aimed at providing essential support and funding for vulnerable and low-income families. The scheme's primary goal is to ensure that every vulnerable family, particularly those facing economic hardship, has access to healthy and nutritious food.

Nearly £1million of the NHS Healthy Start scheme in Hertfordshire, is still unclaimed and more families need your support to benefit from this funding How to apply – Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)

How the scheme works:

Money is added onto the Healthy Start card every 4 weeks and recipient receives:

• £4.65 each week of pregnancy from the 10^th week
• £9.30 each week for children from birth to 1 year old
• £4.65 each week for children between 1 and 4 years old

Families can also obtain free vitamins from their local family centre in Hertfordshire – find out more at www.hertsfamilycentres.org/healthystartvitamins

More information available at Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)

You can also email healthy.start@nhsbsa.nhs.uk or call 0300 330 7010 for information.

The Bridge is back!

Our Intensive Family Support Team in Welwyn Hatfield will be restarting The Bridge, which is a support group designed for parents, carers and young people in school years 6,7 and 8 who are struggling with school attendance. This includes those who are not attending school at all or on a significantly reduced timetable. Some of the topics covered are:-

• Anxiety and worries related to school
• Friendships and social dynamics
• Health and wellbeing
• Neurodiversity
• The Future

You can find out more on the attached leaflet and sessions will run for 12 weeks starting on Thursday 16th April 2026—9th July 2026, 12:30pm-2:30pm at Welwyn Garden City Cricket Club, 288 Knightsfield, WGC, AL8 7NQ (NOTE: Although these sessions have already started, there will be future sessions run so it's worth registering an interest if you have a family in mind).

Please contact Alison.cowie@hertfordshire.gov.uk or karina.saunders@hertfordshire.gov.uk if you have any questions.

Download the poster here 

News from Services for Young People

Latest update from our youth councils for young people with SEND

As part of Hertfordshire County Council’s commitment to listening to the voices of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and involving them in shaping and improving services to meet their needs, Services for Young People (SfYP) has been running youth councils exclusively for young people with SEND in all districts of Hertfordshire since 2024.

Supported by professionally qualified SfYP Youth Workers, the youth council members have been engaging in many consultations and co-productions. They have worked with commissioners, councillors, senior leaders and other professionals and organisations to give their feedback on a wide range of services and campaigns across education and healthcare.

They have also identified and explored issues important to them, participating in discussions and activities through which they learnt new skills and increase their knowledge, confidence and self esteem.

• Read the full story with details of each SEND youth council’s autumn term activities

All young people with SEND aged 11-25 can have their voices heard by joining an SfYP youth council near them. Find full details here:

• Youth councils for young people with SEND

Get September Ready with Services for Young People

Services for Young People is offering ‘Get September Ready’ sessions throughout the summer to help Year 11 students feel more confident and prepared for their next steps after school. The free sessions are open to all young people in Hertfordshire who are finishing Year 11 and who would benefit from support with the transition to their next step.

Whether they are going into sixth form, college or don’t currently have anything in place for September, they can get individualised support from qualified Services for Young People CEIAG Advisers. The informal sessions are particularly beneficial for young people who have been out of education, are home-educated, or have special educational needs and disabilities, including those with social, emotional and mental health needs.

Read the full story with dates and locations of the 2026 Get September Ready sessions

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

District	Telephone Number
Hertsmere	0203 751 4540
Watford & Three Rivers	01923 728840
Dacorum	01442 916646
St Albans	01727 641590
North Herts	01438 870916
Stevenage	01462 659039
Broxbourne	01992 475262
Welwyn / Hatfield	01707 629359
East Herts	01992 475261

 

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

Check out Hertfordshire's Spring 26 Parenting and Relationship Courses

You can view the Spring 2026 Parenting and Relationship Support Offer Newsletter which will provide you with information and details on Parenting Courses and Relationship Support offer. Please can you ensure you cascade to your teams. If you have any questions please email CSStrategic.Partnerships@hertfordshire.gov.uk .

We have listed a few of the current courses below, but please visit the Hertfordshire Directory for the full listing.

Is your Service listed on the Hertfordshire Directory? 

Providers, services, groups and individuals can request a login and once approved, they can create a comprehensive listing and receive direct referrals if they wish. This can include key information such as what they do, who they support, when and where they work and their website for more information.

There are some short YouTube videos to help people get started:

• Getting started with Hertfordshire Directory
• Adding a new listing to Hertfordshire Directory – part 1
• Adding a new listing to Hertfordshire Directory – part 2

There’s also a How to step-by-step guide online

If you have any questions, queries or feedback about the Directory, or need support accessing it, please email:

anne.ardley@hertfordshire.gov.uk or web.team@hertfordshire.gov.uk

 

Families First Dates for Your Diary!

Monthly Families First Keeping in Touch Sessions

These sessions are a short informal update on service news, training offers and parenting courses delivered by one of our service managers. Please email familiesfirst.support@hertfordshire.gov..uk if you would like an invitation to join.

• Next date is: Thursday 11 June 2026, 9am-9.30am

Join a Families First Induction day - ideal for new starters

We host Families First online Induction days 4 times per year, where various early help services give a 20 minute whistle-stop tour of their service and are attended by new internal CS staff and external partners. The next dates are:-

• Wednesday 8 July 2026 via Teams

Please email: familiesfirst.support@hertfordshire.gov.uk if you have any questions on the above or would like an invite sent to you.

Families First quarterly district partnership meetings

In addition, many of you are regular attendees at our partnership meetings, which are a great way of keeping up to date with new services, updates and make connections. You can find out more about the groups here and email familiesfirst.support@hertfordshire.gov.uk if you would like to join.

Working Together in Early Help Events

Next round of events will take place in late Spring 2026:-

DATES & VENUES:-

Thursday 30 April, 9.30am-12.00pm, Broxbourne Borough Council, Cheshunt (FULLY BOOKED)
Thursday 14 May, 9.30am – 12.00pm, Three Rivers District Council, Rickmansworth
Monday 18 May, 9.30am - 12.00pm, Sadie Centre, Letchworth (FULLY BOOKED)
Thursday 21 May, 9.30am – 12.00pm, South Hill Centre, Hemel Hempstead (FULLY BOOKED)

Find out who will be presenting and book your place

Workforce Shadowing

Whole Family Working : Join a Webinar

To coincide with Equal Parenting Week, HSCP/HSAB are hosting a free webinar on Whole Family Working along with the launch of the new HSCP Father Inclusive Practice guidance.

Hear how practitioners should take a child‑centred, whole‑family approach, seeing and hearing the child, understanding each family member’s needs, and recognising how these needs affect one another.
Sessions available:-

• 9:30-10:30am – Tuesday 28 April
• 4-5pm – Wednesday 29 April
• 9:30-10:30am – Friday 1 May

More information download the flyer and book your place here:-  Event List (scroll down on page)

My Teen Brain Online Training

Strategic Partnerships Commissioning are pleased to announce the next My Teen Brain Online Training courses that are due to be delivered on:

• Thursday 7th May 2026
• Thursday 4th June 2026

This FREE 1-day CPD course, from 10am – 3pm is for Hertfordshire practitioners working with parents of teenagers and/or working with teenagers or young people in Hertfordshire. It provides an opportunity to understand teenage brain development and the adolescent developmental process and consider both risk and resilience. It includes ideas and strategies for professionals working with teenagers and their parents to help them cope with challenging feelings and behaviour and to support young people in an emotionally healthy context. The day brings together the latest understanding from neuroscience and developmental psychology and the principles of The Nurturing Program from The Centre For Emotional Health.

 Please find the booking link below for you to reserve your place on one of our Autumn term courses.  This training is a very popular and is beneficial to all practitioners who work with Hertfordshire children and families. 

 

If you are interested in booking on to the course, please ensure that you ONLY reserve your place if you have the capacity to attend the training on your preferred day and for the entire duration of the session, from 10am – 3pm.

 

Thursday 7th May - My Teen Brain Online Training - 7 May | Hertfordshire County Council

Thursday 4th June - My Teen Brain Online Training - 4 June | Hertfordshire County Council

 

If you would like further information about the course or alternative dates, please email CSStrategic.Partnerships@hertfordshire.gov.uk

 

HSCP Learning & Development Programme

HSCP provide a wide variety of learning programmes and workshops across Hertfordshire to develop skills for safeguarding children, young people and adults. We use this page to give you some quick links through to the HSCP learning programmes:-

• Take a look at the HSCP Learning Hubs.  You can sign up for sessions via the website.  HSAB and HSCP training and resources | Hertfordshire County Council. You can also view useful resources and 7 minute briefings on this link.
• View the HSCP Neglect Hub here:- Neglect Hub | Hertfordshire County Council

• Hertfordshire’s Continuum of Need:

  The Continuum of Need is a threshold document that supports everyone working with Hertfordshire’s children, young people and families, to identify the “Level of Need” and the service responses that can be expected. It sets out how we can work together, by placing the child, young person and family at the centre, sharing information, and working with families to help them to find solutions early to prevent their difficulties escalating.

  Children's Services Continuum of Need 2025-26

  
  

  • An information leaflet for families.

  • A one-page briefing to explain the process in Children's Services front door.

  • A flowchart about what happens to your referral.

Money Advice Programme - Spring 2026

You can now download and view the Money Advice Unit Training Programme and booking form for WINTER 2025/6.

All the courses are free of charge but please note, we will only accept bookings from organisations in Hertfordshire. Due to demand, we only allow a maximum of two participants from each organisation per course.

If you want to book for more than one person, please complete a separate booking form for each person.

Once you return the completed booking form(s) to us, the attendees will receive a booking confirmation email within 5 working days. Please check your junk folder as sometimes our emails go to the junk folder straight away.

 

Exciting News – Our New Public Health Hertfordshire Training website is Live!

Our Public Health training website, designed to provide the workforce, carers and volunteers a place to view and book onto Public Health Hertfordshire courses in one place is now live. Whether you prefer in-person training, live online learning, or flexible e-learning, you can now browse and book onto these via the one site.

The site also includes information about some partner-led courses, such as suicide prevention and how to access these.

When you access the site, you will be able to see a wide range of valuable learning opportunities and course dates.

Right now, you can explore and book onto courses for: -

• Gambling-related harm awareness
• Healthy Homes for Healthier Lives
• Making Every Contact Count
• Health Checks
• Motivational Interviewing
• Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
• Dementia awareness
• Drugs & Alcohol
• Stop Smoking

This is just the beginning! The website is new, whilst there are plenty of courses to book onto already, new courses are being added regularly.

What can learners do? ✔ Filter courses by category ✔ Discover learning objectives and who each course is designed for ✔ Book individually or for a group of trainees ✔ Receive email booking confirmations, updates and follow-ups after your course ✔ Receive suggestions for what to learn next

Ready to upskill and make a difference? Visit the new site today and start exploring the courses that matter most to you and your team!

Public Health Training | Hertfordshire County Council

**If you are using a mobile device to view the website, click on “open filters” at the top of the page to see the different categories. **

Families First - Performance Data Report

You may be interested to view our Families First Performance Data report for the period January 2025 - December 2025.

The report looks at Families First Assessments that took place within the period and highlights the presenting needs and outcomes broken down by district along with information about other support for families.

 

Families First Case Studies

Following on from a programme of Celebrating Excellence in Early Help sessions run in Children’s Services, which aimed to highlight the Families First approach and also included contributions from some of our partners, we are sharing some of the recent case below:

Case Study 1 - Intensive Family Support / Local Borough Council

Scene Setting

The Intensive Family Support team (IFST) began supporting this family of nine in Spring 2021.

As support got underway the third youngest child Tia* was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour and the family are struggling coming to terms with Tia’s diagnosis and her life expectancy of one year. Tia is 11 years old.

On learning of Tia’s prognosis and following discussion with Keech Hospice an Occupational Therapist (OT) appointment was arranged for the family’s home. This assessment identified that the three-bedroom home was not suitable for end-of-life care and was not suitable for adaptation as the access was too narrow and steep for a ramp.

The Family Intervention Worker (FIW) made contact with the local Borough Council’s Aids and Adaptions Team for support.

READ MORE

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Case Study 2 - Families First Assessment

Scene Setting

This case study provides some insight into the journey of Fran* and her family. Fran is an eight year old girl who worries about her mum, she knows mum is different when she is with her drinking friends. Fran’s Mum has a diagnosis of unstable personality disorder and has previously used drugs and alcohol as coping strategies, she has been in a cycle of poor mental health and whilst their wider family network have been supporting Fran and her mother they sought out some external support via a Families First Assessment.

READ MORE

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Case Study 3 - Employment Adviser/IFST

Scene Setting:

This case study provides some insight into the support provided to Sanz* from one of our Employment Advisers. Our Intensive Family Support Teams include Employment Advisers who provide tailored support in areas such as employability; taking time to understand skills and experiences, any barriers or challenges preventing employment, identification of any training to support employability, preparation of supporting statements and CVs and job search support, including mock interviews.

Our Advisers can also provide guidance on how to navigate the benefits system, including benefit entitlements and claims, as well as how changes in circumstances impact benefits.

They work in parallel with Family Intervention Workers. This case study summarises support given to Sanz, the mother, to support with employability and benefits.

 READ MORE

Case Study 4 - Local Schools Partnership

Case Study 5 

This case study follows a mum who suffers from depression and anxiety. She was distrusting of professionals due to a negative experience with Children's Services in another local authority. Dad had recently moved out of the family home so she cares for her three children alone. Read more about the support the family received and the tools mum now takes forward in her parenting skills.

READ MORE 

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Please share anonymised case studies highlighting how early help and partnership working has provided support to local families with us at familiesfirst.support@hertfordshire.gov.uk. Please ensure you have consent from the family.

Supporting Boys & Men’s Professional Network Event

GET PHOTOS

The St Albans and Dacorum IFST held a very successful event at Woodhall Adventure Playground on Thursday 26^th March. Many fantastic professionals, all passionate about their craft, attended and made many useful contacts to better support Men & Boys across Hertfordshire.

These included individuals from services such as, Future Living, Hightown Housing Association, For Baby’s Sake, Watford Football Club Community Support Education Trust, Supporting Families Practice Team, Harpenden Plus Partnership and Women’s Refuge.

There were two guest speakers Watford FC CSE Trust and Future Living. Who highlighted the groups and programmes that they run in Hertfordshire to assist Men & Boys with the wide variety of topics that are relevant to young men in the modern world.

From domestic abuse to toxic relationships, the ever-encroaching shadow of the ‘Manosphere’, these groups cover a wide range of topics.

These great services offer activities to fathers and young men who may want to build support networks of their own or may simply want to have a conversation with others who share their concerns. Perhaps they may even want to blow off some steam with a game of football, which Watford FC CSE Trust can certainly facilitate.

Following these speakers, all present shared their relevant experiences and examples of where these services could have been useful in the past,  are currently useful today as well as all of the positive plans for the future.

St Albans and Dacorum IFST were proud to announce the next Men & Boys Networking Event, to showcase services or simply to build a professional network of their own. The QR code was given to all to scan before they left the event.

Well done Henry, we know the hard work and perseverance that was put into making the event take place. Also, thankyou Daniel for the support that you have provided to Henry during this time.

The next Supporting Boys & Men’s Professional Network Event will take place on 17 November at 12pm. Book your place here:-

Supporting Boys & Men’s Professional Network Event

Who's Who in Supporting Families

Supporting Families Team

Head of Supporting Families: Karen Dorney

Service Managers:

Lauren Penrose - Service Manager, IFST and Participation Team

Sue Chapman - Service Manager, Supporting Families Partnership Team, Young Carers Team, Safe Space and      Father Inclusive Practice

Simon Gentry – Services Manager, Performance & Improvement (Early Help data)

Intensive Family Support Teams

The Intensive Family Support teams (IFST) work with families with multiple and complex needs who would benefit from intensive support.

Find Contacts here:- Intensive Family Support Teams (hertfordshire.gov.uk)

Families First Coordinators - How can they support you locally?

As your local Senior and Families First Coordinators, we can offer support in all areas of the Families First Assessment. Please contact us if you are experiencing any difficulties or require further advice and guidance.  We can support you with challenges including:

Speak to someone (hertfordshire.gov.uk)

Development Team

To contact the Supporting Families Development team email familiesfirst.support@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Local News

Updates from the local districts

Please use this page to promote any local events or webinars. Please send an email with the subject: FF News - Local News page with a link to your event and short description to familiesfirst.support@hertfordshire.gov.uk

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Broxbourne & East Herts

Hoddesdon Library: Face To Face Courses – Step2Skills  Details of upcoming face‑to‑face courses taking place at Hoddesdon Library.  Content writing for profit 21^st May – 5 weeks – 9.30am 12pm.  How to publish a book 21^st May – 5 weeks 1.30pm-4pm.  Digital photography 25^th June – 1.30pm-4pm.  Should you need any additional details, please feel free to contact Charlotte Adams, Step2Skills charlotte.adams@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Herts Sports and Physical Activity Partnership

We’re really excited to be preparing for a fantastic summer at Waltham Cross Playing Fields, with a range of vibrant, community-focused events for children and young people. We’d love for you to be part of it—whether that’s showcasing what you do, connecting with local families, or delivering fun taster sessions that inspire young people to get involved.  These events attract hundreds of attendees and are a great opportunity to grow awareness of your groups, clubs, and activities while helping us create an active, inclusive community. Please find more details below:

 Waltham Cross Cycle Hub Launch
Saturday 9 May, 10am – 12 noon
A free community launch event celebrating cycling and active travel. This is a great opportunity for residents to discover the new hub and upcoming opportunities, including led rides, learn-to-ride sessions, bike marking, maintenance workshops, volunteering, and training.

 Herts Summer Parks
Tuesday 4, 11, 18 August, 3pm – 6pm
A free, festival-style programme for young people aged 12–16, featuring sports, arts and crafts, inflatables, adrenaline activities, music workshops, and much, much more. Each young person also receives a voucher for a nutritious meal from local food providers.

 Waltham Cross Sports Festival
Saturday 15 August, 12pm – 4pm
A free annual community celebration for families, promoting physical activity and showcasing local opportunities. The day includes sessions, competitions, demonstrations, tournaments, and plenty of fun children’s activities such as bouncy castles and face painting.

 If you’re interested in getting involved in any of these events, we’d love to hear from you. Your involvement will play a key role in helping more children and young people get active, try something new, and feel part of their local community.  Please contact Matthew Ridley m.ridley2@herts.ac.uk at your earliest convenience.

Sporting Aid

View FREE projects happening across Broxbourne for young people here: Sporting Aid Projects

News from CHEXs

CHEXS Easter Trail Day - Thank you!  We had an amazing time at Cedars Park last Saturday for our Easter event! The sun was shining, and so many families came to explore our new trail through the park. A huge thank you to all the stall holders who joined us, to LMA for their wonderful dance performance, and to Broxbourne Council for their support and assistance on the day. Your participation helped make the event truly special, and we loved seeing so many smiles enjoying the fun activities. We raised over £2072 for CHEXS

CHEXS Awards - CHEXS are incredibly proud to be the Winners of the Nurture by Nature Award at the High Sheriff Awards 2026. This recognition celebrates our work supporting children and young people facing disadvantage across Waltham Cross. Through hands-on activities in local green spaces, from planting and growing food to park clean-ups, we help build confidence, connection, and well-being.  Thank you to everyone who continues to support our work in the community. 

Real Talk Sessions -Our Real Talk Sessions are a friendly, relaxed space for parents and carers to connect, share experiences and talk openly about parenting. Join us every other Wednesday in the community room at the back of Tesco Brookfield for advice, support, and a chance to chat, with a cuppa included ☕Sessions restart after the Easter half term on Wednesday 15th April, 1 pm to 2.15 pm. Come along, you’ll be warmly welcomed.

Free & Friendly Coffee & Chat Sessions - Our popular Time for You sessions will be continuing throughout the summer at The Beaumont Centre every Tuesday starting at 12.30pm.  To read more about these sessions, see the link MORE INFO

Team All Stars & Team Gold - Thank You - A huge thank you to our incredible 12 for 12 Challenge teams! From walking, scootering, dancing, bike rides, and even a half-marathon, your dedication and energy were amazing.  Together, you helped us raise £1,144, and with the support of Helping Herts doubling this, it’s a fantastic achievement for local young people and families. We’re so proud and grateful for all your support!

SPACE

Support Groups -  Cheshunt, Welwyn and St Albans - After a short break over the Easter holidays, our in-person Support Groups are back - and we would love to welcome you. Our free monthly sessions are open to all parents, carers and families raising neurodivergent children and young people, including autism and ADHD. No diagnosis is needed.   

Cheshunt Support Group - Tuesday 28 April, 10am
Hosted by Hayley and the Family Support team, this session includes a focus on Therapeutic Parenting with Chris, alongside insights from Adrienne from DSPL 4 on local support for families.
Book now

#BeWaterAware event

A free water safety event, #BeWaterAware, will be held at the Lee Valley White Water Centre on 1 May from 10.30am – 12.30pm. This is a great opportunity for local organisations, community groups, and residents to learn more about staying safe around water, while enjoying a fun and informative day.

If you think your organisation, or any groups within your network, would be interested in getting involved or attending, please do get in touch with Paskell Blackwell at pblackwell@leevalleypark.org.uk

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St Albans & Dacorum

SPACE

Support Groups -  Cheshunt, Welwyn and St Albans - After a short break over the Easter holidays, our in-person Support Groups are back - and we would love to welcome you. Our free monthly sessions are open to all parents, carers and families raising neurodivergent children and young people, including autism and ADHD. No diagnosis is needed.   

 St Albans Support Group - Friday 1 May, 10am
Mel and Suzie are joined by guest speaker Liz to explore Social Communication and Interaction in Autism and ADHD, including practical strategies to support your child. Lending SPACE will also be available with resources to borrow.
Book now

Hemel Hempstead Library : Face To Face Courses – Step2Skills Upcoming face‑to‑face courses taking place at Hemel Hempstead Library, delivered by our experienced teacher Joy - Meet the Team.  These are ideal for anyone who is interested in seeking employment and/or confidence, to build skills for personal or professional development:  🍎 Introduction to Working in Schools – Tues 2^nd June 1pm for 5 wks (booking closes 29^th May 12am).  More information and how to book can be found here: Introduction to working in schools | Hertfordshire County Council

Should you need any additional details, please feel free to contact Charlotte Adams at Step2Skills charlotte.adams@hertfordshire.gov.uk

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North Herts & Stevenage

Stevenage Inclusive Job Fair - Step2Skills

• Meet employers to find out about local opportunities and the skills they are looking for
• Chat with Step2Skills Supported Employment team
• BSL Interpreter available all day
• Quiet hour bookable (see QR code on poster attached)

Thursday 14 May, 10am-2pm, at Stevenage Football Club, Broadhall Way, Stevenage SG2 8RH

SPACE

Primary Steps coming soon to Royston -  Primary Steps is coming to Royston and we don’t want you to miss out. This practical, supportive six-week course is designed for parents and carers of primary-aged neurodivergent children (Reception–Year 6), exploring strategies to better understand your child’s needs, including communication, sensory differences and behaviour, in a calm and friendly environment.  Location: Outside of the Box CIC (SG8 7BX) - Dates and times: 10am–12pm on Friday mornings: April 17th, 24th and May 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on your existing knowledge, Primary Steps can make a real difference - but places are limited, so book now. Primary Steps - 6 Week Course (Royston) Tickets, Friday 17 April-Friday 22 May  •  10-12 | Eventbrite

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Welwyn Hatfield

Domestic Abuse Conference

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council would like to invite you to the Domestic Abuse Conference for 2026, organised in partnership by Hertsmere Borough Council, St Albans District Council and Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council. This year’s theme is ‘Growing up with abuse by my side’.  The conference will take place on Tuesday 30 June 2026 from 9am – 2:30pm at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL8 6BX. Attendees are able to arrive from 8:30am for a prompt 9am start.   The day will include presentations from various speakers, including those with lived experience and local support services.   Lunch and refreshments will be provided with networking opportunities and stalls, including an exhibition from Red Kite Rape and Sexual Assault Support Service. If your service would like to have a stall during lunch please email h.wilson1@welhat.gov.uk or loran.kingston@hertsmere.gov.uk.   Parking is available at Campus West. Please note that charges apply.   To book your place, visit the EventBrite site – DAConference2026.eventbrite.co.uk. Once you have booked your place, a diary invite will be sent to you within a few days.   If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email h.wilson1@welhat.gov.uk or loran.kingston@hertsmere.gov.uk.

Tee Talk - Men's Mental health Week

Tee Talk is an event which The Welwyn Hatfield Council will be delivering alongside Mill Green Golf Club on behalf of Men’s Mental Health Week, taking place on Wednesday 10th June, 5:15pm–8:30pm, at Mill Green Golf Club, Gypsy Lane, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 4TY.  Tee Talk will provide a relaxed, supportive, and non-judgemental space for men to connect, open up and enjoy themselves. Activities include golf or footgolf, followed by refreshments, music, and a possible BBQ.  We’re also set to have some local charities attend, particularly those which support men’s mental health so that they can engage with and support attendees and distribute resources.  We’d really appreciate your support in sharing this with your networks to help us reach more charities which could be keen to attend and share to anyone who may benefit from this event.  For any enquiries, please contact – j.snowdon@welhat.gov.uk

Hatfield Library: Face‑to‑face courses taking place at Hatfield Library, delivered by our experienced teachers - Meet the Team. These are ideal for anyone who is interested in seeking employment and/or confidence, to build skills for personal or professional development:

New learning opportunities with one of our short courses:

 How to Publish a Book – Tue 19^th May at 10.15am for 5 wks (booking closes Fri 15^th May 12am) – with Lynne

Further details and to book your place here: How to Publish a Book | Hertfordshire County Council

Digital Photography – Tues 23^rd June at 10.15am for 5 wks (booking closes Fri 19^th June at 12am) – with Lynne

Further details and to book your place here Digital Photography | Hertfordshire County Council

Take your learning to the next step with one of our qualification courses:

Level 1 Award in Setting and Achieving Personal Goals – Weds 3^rd June at 1pm for 5 wks (booking closes Mon 1^st June at 12am) – with Michelle

Further details and to book your place here Level 1 Award in Setting and Achieving Personal Goals | Hertfordshire County Council

 Should you need any additional details, please feel free to contact Charlotte.Adams@hertfordshire.gov.uk 

SPACE

Support Groups -  Cheshunt, Welwyn and St Albans - After a short break over the Easter holidays, our in-person Support Groups are back - and we would love to welcome you. Our free monthly sessions are open to all parents, carers and families raising neurodivergent children and young people, including autism and ADHD. No diagnosis is needed.   

 Welwyn Support Group - Thursday 30 April, 7pm
Join Tanya, Karen and Patty to learn more about Hertfordshire’s Short Break Local Offer (SBLO), including how to apply and access support. Our Lending SPACE team will also be there with equipment available to borrow.
Book now

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Watford, Three Rivers Hertsmere

Face‑to‑face courses taking place at South Oxhey Library, delivered by our experienced teachers - Meet the Team. These are ideal for anyone who is interested in seeking employment and/or confidence, to build skills for personal or professional development:

 Up and coming tasters with Louisa: 

Online Job Search & Applications Weds 29^th April 9.30am (booking closes Mon 27^th April): Online Job Search and Applications - Taster | Hertfordshire County Council

How to Write a Business Plan Weds 6^th May 9.30am (booking closes Mon 4^th May): How to write a Business Plan - Taster | Hertfordshire County Council

or Weds 20^th May 9.30am (booking closes Mon 18^th May): How to write a Business Plan - Taster | Hertfordshire County Council

Motivation & Time Management Weds 13^th May 9.30am (booking closes Mon 11^th May): Motivation and Time Management - Taster | Hertfordshire County Council

or Weds 8^th July (booking closes Mon 6^th July): Motivation and Time Management - Taster | Hertfordshire County Council

 Up and coming courses with Joy or Louisa:

 Introduction to Working in Schools with Joy Tues 2 June 9.15am (booking closes Tues 29^th May): Introduction to working in schools | Hertfordshire County Council

Boost Your Confidence with Louisa Weds 3 June 9.30am (booking closes Mon 1^st June): Boost Your Confidence | Hertfordshire County Council

 Should you need any additional details, please feel free to contact charlotte.adams@hertfprdshire.gov.uk