Welcome

Dear Partners,

Welcome to the September edition of Families First News for Hertfordshire's early help professionals and we hope you all managed to take a break over the glorious summer!

September has had a busy start and we already have a bumper edition of news to share with you. Firstly we would like to update you on the outcome of our recent ILACS inspection:-

Ofsted praises Hertfordshire's "relentless ambition" for children and families following its ILACS inspection

More information about the inspection findings can be found on the county council’s website and you can find the full inspection report on Ofsted’s website.

We also have an update on... 

Implementing the national children's social care reforms: update for partners

Please take time to read the update for partners on how the national children's social care reforms are being implemented in Hertfordshire.

Also, please note the Families First Support Update:-

• The Supporting Families teams will continue to play a key role in supporting the essential work delivered by our partners. This will include ongoing support, guidance and training relating to Early Help Modules (EHM), as well as assistance with assessment, planning and review processes.
• Partners will continue to have access to consultation for escalating concerns, alongside support through the multi-agency panel process. Other established activities will remain in place, including Working Together events, Keeping in Touch (KIT) sessions, Early Help staff induction, Families First Partnership groups, and jointly delivered group programmes.
• In addition, both operational and strategic support for targeted early help and prevention activity will continue, ensuring families across Hertfordshire receive the right support at the right time through a coordinated partnership approach.

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.  

If you or a team member would like to learn more about Families First, 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.

The Development Team

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Children, Young People & Families Crisis Support Fund

If you’re a professional supporting people in Hertfordshire, join our upcoming Crisis and Resilience Fund webinar to learn about the latest services, support and developments available to residents facing financial hardship or crisis.

The session will provide practical guidance to help you make confident referrals and ensure people can access the right support at the right time.

Book your place today and ensure you're up to date with the latest support available through the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

• Register for Thursday 24 September 2026 1.30pm – 2.30pm
• Register for Wednesday 30 September 2026 12pm – 1pm

 A BSL interpreter will be available at both sessions.

 We will record the sessions to be made available afterwards and slides will be shared.

Online safety: sharing nude images

The Home Office has announced plans to block children in the UK from taking or sharing nude images on their devices to help protect them from exploitation and abuse. Technology companies will be required to activate built-in features or implement solutions on smartphones and tablets to detect and block nude images for children. The government wants Apple and Google to block nudity across devices by default, so they can only be deactivated via age assurance.

Read the news story: New plans to stop children taking, sharing or viewing nude images

Parenting and Relationship Autumn Newsletter

Please find attached the Autumn 26 Parenting and Relationship Support newsletter. Please share with your teams.

Reducing Parental Conflict

OnePlusOne Getting on Better: e-learning

Getting on Better e-learning is a self-guided online course for practitioners working with parents and families.  It is designed to help you feel more confident in supporting parents to improve their relationships, and to familiarise you with the Getting on Better resources.  

There are 4 modules to complete each module will take approximately 45 minutes and can be completed at your own pace. You will have 3 months to complete the modules.‍

The modules will cover:

Module 1: The impact of parental conflict.

In this module you will learn about the evidence base behind the resources and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of parental conflict.

Module 2: Recognising domestic abuse.

The Getting on Better package is not suitable for families where domestic abuse is a factor. In this module you will learn to recognise the difference between domestic abuse and parental conflict, spot the signs and risks, and take appropriate steps.

Module 3: Introduction to the Getting on Better package.

Here you’ll learn about the resources in the Getting on Better package. You’ll also have a chance to explore the parent interventions for yourself.

Module 4: Building your confidence.

In this module you will learn how to discuss relationships with parents, as well as the best ways to apply the Getting on Better resources to real-life situations to create learning moments.  

How to access: Please complete the OnePlusOne Getting on Better e-learning training request form

Relationship support courses for parents and carers

We offer a range of resources and interactive courses to help parents improve their relationships and manage disagreements constructively.

These courses aim to empower parents with practical advice and coping strategies:

For more information go to Relationship support for parents | Hertfordshire County Council.

Launch of Mimram Gender Based Abuse Advocacy Service

The Mimram Gender Based Support Service launched on the 1st of July. The Service specialises in providing practical and emotional support, as part of a co-ordinated multi-agency response to meeting the needs of survivors of all forms of Violence Against Women and Girls, including domestic, sexual, technology-facilitated, economic abuse and so-called ‘honour’ based violence, as well as coercive control, modern slavery and human trafficking, working in the sex industry, forced marriage, stalking and female genital mutilation. The service is available for women, children and men of all ages who are living in Hertfordshire and are experiencing a form of gender-based abuse. 

This service replaces the previous IDVA and Community Outreach Services.

Download:-

Service Poster

Info Pack for Professionals

Poster for Professionals with Marac

DBS and Barred List Checks – Regulated Activity

From 1 September 2026, all volunteers/unpaid helpers who fit criteria will be considered in regulated activity with children and will require an enhanced DSB with barred list check. Currently those volunteers/unpaid helpers do not need those checks because they are considered supervised by someone else in regulated activity, which has been recognised as a weak safeguarding arrangement. They will now automatically be in regulated activity themselves and subject to a barred list check which can prevent them working from children (if relevant) even though they have a clear basic or enhanced DBS.

Criteria is a person undertaking activities such as teaching, training, instructing, caring for or supervising children, even if under supervision of another person

• on more than 3 days in a 30-day period (volunteering hours in different roles are considered to be one amount so 2 roles of 1.5 days each in a month is regulated activity)
• overnight (only needs to happen once)

All agencies will need to start reviewing their existing volunteers and ensure plans are put in place to trigger enhanced DBS and barred list checks from the 1 September 2026. They will need to ask volunteers if they have activities in other agencies which may be accumulative to 3 days + in a 30-day period. Any new onboarding of volunteers needs to include these new checks from this date.

Although the government guidance specifically mentions schools and colleges, this is because they are likely to have a large workforce impacted by this. However, the changes apply to all organisations providing services to children.  

See: Regulated activity: removal of the supervision exemption (comes into force 1 September 2026) - GOV.UK

King's Trust Team Programme

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is currently recruiting for the next King's Trust Team Programme in Hemel Hempstead, Stevenage/North Herts and Watford, starting 14 September and we're looking for your help to spread the word.

The programme supports 16-25 year olds who are not currently in education, employment or training, or who may lack confidence about their next steps. Participants develop new skills, gain qualifications, improve confidence, take part in community projects, and receive support into employment, education or volunteering.

If you know a young person, family member, neighbour, friend, or community contact who could benefit from this opportunity, please encourage them to get in touch.

✅ Build confidence
✅ Gain new skills and qualifications
✅ Meet new people
✅ Improve employability
✅ Take on exciting challenges and community projects

More info here: Children and young people | Hertfordshire County Council and email contacts below to apply or via Apply for the King's Trust Team Programme | Hertfordshire County Council

Please help us reach more young people by sharing this post within your networks. For further information or to refer someone, contact: 

Hemel Team: Amber Molloy - amber.molloy@hertfordshire.gov.uk
Stevenage Team: Ben Parker-Bratt - ben.parker-bratt@hertfordshire.gov.uk
Watford Team: Pamela Gagliardi - pamela.gagliardi@hertfordshire.gov.u

Participation Team - Children and Young people Podcast

A brand-new podcast from the Participation Team is now live and features young people sharing their lived experiences and perspectives on labelling, stigma, and stereotypes. The podcast offers valuable insights from young people, encouraging reflection and greater understanding of the impact of labels and assumptions. Listen and share with colleagues and networks now.

Participation Team YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ParticipationTeam

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/participationteam

News from the Family Centre Service

Family Support Service’s Annual Report 2026

We’re pleased to share the Family Support Service’s Annual Report, reflecting on another busy and successful year supporting children and families across Hertfordshire.

The report highlights the breadth of work delivered and the positive difference made to families through the commitment and dedication of our staff, volunteers and partners.

Alongside key achievements, impact and highlights from the past year, the report also looks ahead to our priorities and next steps as we continue to develop and strengthen the support available to families across Hertfordshire.

We hope you enjoy reading the report and learning more about the Hertfordshire Family Support Service.

Read the Family Support Service Annual Report (April 2025 – March 2026).

The Incredible Years® Preschool Parenting Programme

The Family Support Service, in collaboration with Best Start Family Hubs in Watford and Stevenage, are excited to be introducing The Incredible Years® Preschool Parenting Programme to families living in Hertfordshire.

The programme is designed for parents and carers of children aged 3–5 years, and aims to strengthen parent-child relationships, support positive behaviour at home and promote emotional regulation and problem-solving skills in young children. With support from trained practitioners, parents and carers will explore ways to encourage positive behaviour through play, praise, and positive attention. Sessions focus on building strong connections, supporting children’s language and social development, establishing effective routines, and managing challenging behaviours calmly and consistently.

The programme runs over 15 weekly sessions, either online or in person, giving parents and carers the time they need to learn, practise and build confidence in using new strategies at home. Each session follows on from the last, allowing families to make lasting changes that can make a real difference to their child’s development and behaviour.

Incredible Years courses will begin in the Autumn term. Please contact your local Family Centre on 0300 123 7572 and ask for Watford or Stevenage for more information.

Hertfordshire Family Centre Service’s Partnership Network Meetings dates:

Dacorum

Wednesday 14th October 2026, 13:30 – 15:00

Cedar Tree Family Centre c/o Woodhall Farm Community Centre, Dachet Close, Hemel Hempstead HP2 7JX 13:30 - 15:00

Hertsmere District

Tuesday 17th November 2026, 13:30 – 15:00

The BECC Family Centre, Borehamwood, WD6 2FD

Welwyn Hatfield & Broxbourne

Wednesday 18th November 2026, 09:30 - 11:30

De Havilland Family Centre, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 8TQ

Welwyn Hatfield & Broxbourne

Wednesday 18th November 2026, 09:30 - 11:30

Microsoft Teams meeting Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/351009741602945?p=G33WWkKaWtTHvahSOq

Meeting ID: 351 009 741 602 945

Passcode: 5887Vt36

St Albans District

Wednesday 25th November 2026, 13:30 – 15:00

Sopwell Family Centre, St Albans, AL1 2LE

Childminders Stay & Play information session

Welwyn Hatfield

Friday 9th October 2026, 09:30 - 11:00

De Havilland Family Centre, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 8TQ

North Herts/Stevenage

Tuesday 13th October 2026, 10:00 - 11:30

Broadwater Family Centre, c/o Longmeadow Primary School, Stevenage, SG2 8LT

Watford & Three Rivers

Thursday 15th October 2026, 10:00 - 11:30

Beechfield Family Centre, Watford, WD24 5TY

North Herts/Stevenage

Monday 19th October 2026,10:00 - 11:30

Chestnut Tree Family Centre, Letchworth, SG6 2JZ 

St Albans

Monday 19th October 2026,10:00 - 11:30

Sopwell Family Centre, St Albans, AL1 2LE

Broxbourne

Thursday 22nd October 2026, 09;30 - 11:00

High Trees Family Centre, Broxbourne, EN10 6AE

Dacorum

Thursday 22nd October 2026, 09:30 - 11:00 

Little Hands and Little Feet Family Centre, Douglas Gardens, HP4 3PE 

Hertsmere

Thursday 22nd October 2026, 10:00 - 11:30

The BECC Family Centre, Borehamwood, WD6 2FD 

East Herts

Tuesday 10th November 2026, 13:15 - 14:45

Selections Family Centre, Hertford, SG14 2DG

News from Services for Young People

Young people say they feel more confident and clearer about their future goals

The Services for Young People (SfYP) annual user survey showed the positive impact their services have on young people in Hertfordshire. Every year young people who have received help from SfYP complete a survey about what they think about the services they’ve used, how they have benefited, and what improvements could be made. A record number of 1,288 young people aged 11-25 completed the 2026 survey and gave their feedback.

• Read the full story with the headline results and some of the young people’s comments

Providing young people with practical skills for work

This July, SfYP worked in partnership with Clarion Housing to provide a week-long work experience and employability programme at Allum Manor House and Hall for six students at Hertswood Academy in Borehamwood. The students had requested practical or 'trade' work experience, so an SfYP Employment and Skills Coordinator met with staff at Allum Manor House and Hall and set up the project to decorate one of the function rooms. The project was a perfect way for the students to gain hands-on experience and practical skills in a real-world environment.

• Read the full story with details of what the young people learned and feedback from the Centre Manager

Improving community safety in Borehamwood

A Senior Youth Worker in the SfYP Hertsmere Team attended this summer’s ‘Safer Town Centres’ community event in Borehamwood, hosted by the Hertsmere Neighbourhood Policing Team. The event gave residents the opportunity to meet their local police officers and speak directly to other service providers in the area about issues affecting their neighbourhoods and learn about the support available.

• Read the full story for more details and a quote from the Youth Worker

SfYP supports transition event at West Herts College

The transition event at the West Herts College Watford Campus enabled students to explore their options and next steps after they complete their courses. Three members of the SfYP Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere Team talked to the students and their parents/carers about how SfYP can support young people on their journeys as they move on from college.

Read the full story for more details and feedback from the college

Have you heard about the Hertfordshire Directory?

The Hertfordshire Directory is a free website used by professionals and the public to find services, groups and activities across the county.

It contains thousands of listings across a range of categories, from large organisations like OneYMCA and Citizens Advice to a wealth of small and mid-sized charity and voluntary groups, and individuals working in and supporting their local communities.

What can you find?

For older people…community transport, help at home, lunch clubs, digital inclusion and social groups to enhance quality of life and maintain good health for longer.

For unpaid carers…breaks from caring, advice services and support groups for young and older carers.

For adults…cost of living support, services for people with a learning disability, support for refugees, training, volunteering and employment courses, environmental groups and activities to fill your free time and keep active and happy.

For children and parents…our Childcare Finder, parenting courses, family support, pregnancy and infant feeding support, private tutors and a Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) directory which complements the Hertfordshire SEND Local Offer.

For people seeking health advice…support for long term health conditions including dementia, tackling smoking and other addictions and support and activities to look after your mental and physical wellbeing.

The Hertfordshire Directory is a self-service tool. For people who need a little more support, or can’t find what they’re looking for, then HertsHelp, an independent support service is there too via phone or email: www.hertshelp.net

Have you visited Herts Insight recently?

What is Herts Insight? Herts Insight is the home of easy to understand, self-serve data about our residents. It provides statistical data across all topics covered by Hertfordshire services, not just population or deprivation. Quoted by many people as their go-to site for statistics about Hertfordshire, Herts Insight provides an evidence base for users ranging from senior managers at HCC and Hertfordshire Districts, right the way down to people working in and for our smallest communities. It is used by decision makers for funding bids and strategic planning, as well as residents and people in the community who want to understand the statistical makeup of their neighbourhood.

Could it help you to better understand the community in which you live or serve? To view the range of topics available, go to the Herts Insight website. If you’re interested in data about your local neighbourhood, try pointing to your address on the Which geography am I in? map. You’ll see that the data isn’t just at the largest geographical levels, but right down to neighbourhood (LSOA) level.

For a quick overview of Hertfordshire or a Hertfordshire District, visit the About Hertfordshire profile.

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.

ext dates:-

• Thursday 8 October 2026, 9am-9.30am

Join a Families First Induction day - ideal for new starters

We host Families First online Induction days 3 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 14 Oct 26 am & Thursday 22 Oct 26 pm

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

We recently held a round of Spring 2026 Working Together in Early Help events which are always a great workforce development and networking opportunity. All events were well attended across the county. Please watch this space for our Autumn dates.

Workforce Shadowing

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:

• Wednesday 7^th October

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.

Wednesday 7^th October - My Teen Brain Online Training - 7 October | 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. 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.

The Difference Between Domestic Abuse and Parental Conflict

Hertfordshire County Council has joined colleagues from across the East Midlands and East of England to provide a shared learning opportunity for professionals working with children and families.

Identifying the difference between parental conflict and domestic abuse can be complex, but getting it right is essential to ensuring families receive the most appropriate support. These free virtual sessions will help build your confidence in recognising the signs, understanding coercive control, and responding appropriately in practice.

You'll also have the opportunity to learn alongside professionals from across the region, share experiences and hear about approaches being used in different local authorities and services.

To find out more and book your free place, please see the attached flyer.

Gambling-Related Harm: Training Opportunities

Hertfordshire Public Health is working in partnership with Breakeven to offer free gambling awareness training for professionals who support children, young people, adults, and families across Hertfordshire.

Recent NICE guidance (NG248) recommends that professionals routinely ask about gambling, even when there are no obvious signs of gambling-related harm. Gambling should be considered alongside other health and wellbeing topics, such as smoking, alcohol use, and substance misuse, as part of holistic conversations about risk, wellbeing, and support needs.

For Families First practitioners, this training is particularly relevant as gambling-related harm can have a significant impact on family life. Gambling issues may contribute to financial difficulties, relationship breakdown, stress, poor mental health, and challenges for children and young people. Often these harms remain hidden, meaning families may not access support unless practitioners feel confident raising the subject.

Using national prevalence estimates, it is suggested that:

• Around 38,000 people in Hertfordshire experience harms from their own gambling.
• Approximately 78,000 people in Hertfordshire are negatively affected by someone else's gambling.

This means many of the children, young people, parents, and carers accessing support services may be affected by gambling-related harm, either directly or indirectly, without it ever being identified or disclosed.

The training will help staff to:

• Understand different forms of gambling and how gambling-related harm develops.
• Recognise risk factors and early warning signs.
• Confidently and sensitively start conversations about gambling.
• Understand the impact gambling can have on individuals, families, relationships, mental health, and wellbeing.
• Know where and how to signpost people for appropriate support.
• Meet best practice recommendations from NICE.

We also recommend watching this short five-minute video to hear the experiences of people affected by gambling-related harm:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5b_cl0GwaY

Training Options

1.5-hour "Bet You Can Help Now!" (MS Teams)

• 24 November 2026, 10:00am–11:30am
• 3 February 2027, 10:00am–11:30am

Level 2 Gambling Awareness Training (In Person)

• 13 October 2026, 10:00am–4:00pm
• Welwyn Garden City Library

For further information and to book, please visit: Public Health Training | Hertfordshire County Council

Feedback from previous attendees has been extremely positive, highlighting how the training improved their understanding of the wide range of gambling activities, how gambling-related harm can develop, and the importance of routinely asking people whether they or someone close to them may be affected.

The training is suitable for frontline practitioners, managers, and strategic leads.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch: Lucy Fish – lucy.fish@hertfordshire.gov.uk

For more information about local support services, visit: Gambling | Hertfordshire County Council

CYP Mental Health eLearning

Please complete Intro to CYP Mental Health eLearning and other free training for professionals

Hertfordshire’s Introduction to Children and Young People’s Mental Health eLearning completed by 2000+ professionals!

Several years ago, as part of Hertfordshire’s CYPMHS system transformation programme, colleagues from health, Public Health, social care and voluntary services worked in partnership to create the content for an introductory eLearning module about children and young people’s mental health.

Since launching three years ago, it has been completed by around 2000 colleagues, and it is mandatory for all staff in Hertfordshire County Council’s Children’s Services.

Updated version available (updated May 2026)

Having recently been reviewed. an updated version is now available for ALL professionals working with Hertfordshire's children and young people: 

• Hertfordshire County Council staff
• Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust staff
• Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust staff (via NHS Learning Hub)
• NHS Primary Care staff, Education staff and staff working at Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations.

The module takes about an hour to complete and aims to help colleagues working with Hertfordshire’s children and young people with understanding.

Links to the free eLearning modules

To complete the modules, please follow the appropriate links in the training section at the Herts Hub here.

Read the full information here

Money Advice Programme - Autumn 2026

You can now download and view the Money Advice Unit Training Programme and booking form for AUTUMN 2026.

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.

Healthy Homes for Healthier Lives Training

The Public Health team at Hertfordshire County Council, in partnership with district and borough council Environmental Health and Housing departments, have developed a free training session to support professionals working with individuals whose health may be affected by poor-quality housing.

This session aims to increase participants’ knowledge, understanding, and awareness of what makes a home healthy and why this is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing.

There are currently four sessions available to book:

• Tuesday 6thOctober, 2.00pm to 3.30pm
• Wednesday 4thNovember, 10.00am to 11.30am
• Tuesday 8thDecember, 3.00pm to 4.30pm

Please share this opportunity with your colleagues and networks. Anyone interested can book a place via the Public Health Training webpage

Supporting people with insecure immigration status or no recourse to public funds

What services in Hertfordshire need to know

We are organising a series of webinars for mainstream services who are supporting asylum seekers, refugees, people with insecure immigration status or who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF).

What do services need to consider when working with someone who arrived as a refugee or asylum seeker, through a visa scheme, or who currently has insecure immigration or No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) status?

This webinar will run through what all Hertfordshire based services need to know. It will cover:

• Why status matters and what you need to check to ensure people get the right support
• What people may or may not be entitled to receive and where to find out more
• What specific issues certain people may present with
• What cultural considerations should be considered
• Tips for your service that might help
• What additional support is available for these groups, regardless of status

To ensure that this is accessible to as many people as possible, 2 more dates are available.  To secure your place, please book using the following links

12.30pm – 1.30pm, Wednesday 21st Oct: Webinar - Supporting people with insecure immigration status or no recourse to public funds – what services in Hertfordshire need to know

12.30pm – 1.30pm, Wednesday 16th Dec: Webinar - Supporting people with insecure immigration status or no recourse to public funds – what services in Hertfordshire need to know

Introduction to the SEND Local Offer website’ – webinar

The Local Offer website lets parents, young people and professionals know what special educational needs and disabilities services are available in Hertfordshire, and who can access them. There is so much more than that, too.

A friendly face from the Local Offer team will take you through what’s on the website and how you can use it to find the right services and support.

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/localoffer

(For professionals)  Monday 28 September at 2pm – 3pm Introduction to the Local Offer | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

(For professionals AND parent carers)  Wednesday 30 September 8pm – 8.45pm Introduction to the Local Offer | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

(For professionals)  Thursday 8 October 11am – 12pm Introduction to the Local Offer | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

A quick note: The Local Offer website is different to Short Breaks (SBLO). We won’t be going into detail about SBLO.

Families First - Performance Data Report

You may be interested to view our Families First Performance Data report for the period April 2025 - March 2026.

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.

Good News Stories

Feedback on a member of our Intensive Family Support Team in Watford & Three Rivers

We would like to share this wonderful feedback received from a dad that Dion Lewis in our Watford & Three Rivers Team recently supported, which is a evidence of the importance of Father Inclusive Practice:-

“..... a young woman by the name of Dion Lewis arrived to meet my family of varying ages. She quickly laid my fears to rest with her understanding and eager ear. She always had a calmness throughout and a preparedness which quite frankly I was unprepared for.

The situation she had to manoeuvre around was challenging but she had her focus on all areas simultaneously and with all her effort. Always responding to me with information needed, additional support. She had her finger on the pulse of my family and not once did she let it slip. She worked closely with my 12 year old son who did need focus. Dion didn’t disappoint. He’s grown so much in that time and I think he probably left a lasting impression on them too.

I’ve found support I’ve not experienced previously and I will forever appreciate what she did during these months. I know she’s there with Family Services if I ever need anything in the future. Be it information or somewhere to talk.

Thank you Dion. You’re a credit and a blessing.”

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

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

Other Teams

Safe Space: Sally Gubb 

Young Carers: Gemma Roake

Participation Team: Brooke Donovan

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

Quick link to:-
Broxbourne & East Herts
St Albans & Dacorum
North Herts & Stevenage
Welwyn Hatfield
Watford, Three Rivers & Hertsmere

Broxbourne & East Herts

Girl Corner is a free girls-only programme for young people aged 14–17 providing a safe, supportive and engaging space where participants can shape the activities and sessions based on their interests.

Every Wednesday 6-8pm, Active Local Hub in Waltham Cross.

Please also find the referral/sign-up link below: Your Voice, Your Choice – Girls Corner Sign up Form

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The Butterfly Arts Project, a 12-week after-school programme for girls aged 5–11 at Wormley Community Centre, EN10 6DX. Families can join the programme at any point during the 12 weeks, subject to spaces being available. Sessions take place on Mondays from 3.30pm–5.00pm at Wormley Community Centre.

We use arts and crafts to help girls build confidence, develop new skills, make friends and enjoy a positive space in which to express themselves. Across the 12-week programme, activities include painting, T-shirt upcycling, jewellery making, keyrings, mosaics, embroidery, sewing and yarn crafts.

We are particularly keen to reach young carers, their siblings and other girls who may benefit from additional confidence-building and social support.

Families can register directly using the QR code on the flyer. Professionals can also make a referral on behalf of a child using this link. Download the leaflet.

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Health Walks Autumn Timetables now online

The Health Walks team is delighted to announce that their new Health Walk Timetable in East Herts (Sep to Dec) 2026 is now available online. 

Thanks to the commitment of fantastic volunteers, there are 15 walking opportunities listed—ranging from a gentle walk in Sele Farm, near the Hertford Selections Family Centre (Thursdays at 10am) to a brisk 60-minute walk from the Church of St. James the Great in Thorley near Bishop’s Stortford for (Mondays 10am) for those looking for more of a challenge. Children and families are always welcome.

If you are enthusiastic about walking and would like to Volunteer to support walks, they’d love to hear from you. They are actively recruiting new volunteers to sustain and expand the FREE walks programme in East Herts and offer new walks in Bishop’s Stortford, Buntingford and Sawbridgeworth.

For regular updates, subscribe to Walking in Hertfordshire, follow them on Facebook or visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/healthwalks

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Could You Give One Hour a Week?

MCR Pathways is looking for volunteer mentors to support young people across Hertfordshire, with a particular need in Stevenage and Cheshunt. Mentoring requires just one hour a week during school term time. Mentors meet consistently with a young person in school, offering a listening ear, encouragement and someone who believes in their potential.

No previous mentoring experience is required. MCR Pathways provides full training and ongoing support. All you need is the willingness to listen, build a trusted relationship and help a young person recognise their strengths and ambitions.

If you live or work in Hertfordshire, you could make a lasting difference to a young person. Find out more or register here: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor

Or contact t ernest.moses@mcrpathways.org / 07743 513152.

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Communities First - Learning events

Please see below details of our upcoming courses in Hoddesdon and Hertford, Please note our courses are open to all aged 19+ and resident of Hertfordshire. 

Further information and other courses can be found on our website, https://www.communities1st.org.uk/communitylearning

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You can download the poster for the opening time of the Wasimi breakfast club in Waltham Cross during the summer holidays (attached)

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The Windrush Legacies CIC have Multi-Sports Activity sessions taking place during the summer for children and young people with SEND. Download the leaflet here.

Beezees: Download the Autumn Cheshunt BZ Families sessions and the two Masterclasses along with BeeZee Youth which starts on 30th September 26. 

St Albans & Dacorum

North Herts & Stevenage

Support for Male Survivors of Domestic Abuse:

Future Living Hertford has a dedicated programme of support for male survivors of Domestic Abuse. Attached is the flyer for Wise Guys, which will be delivered at the Sadie Centre in Letchworth on Mondays at 1pm, starting from 7th September. Contact info@futurelivinghertford.co.uk or call 01992 537344 for more information.

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Could You Give One Hour a Week?

MCR Pathways is looking for volunteer mentors to support young people across Hertfordshire, with a particular need in Stevenage and Cheshunt. Mentoring requires just one hour a week during school term time. Mentors meet consistently with a young person in school, offering a listening ear, encouragement and someone who believes in their potential.

No previous mentoring experience is required. MCR Pathways provides full training and ongoing support. All you need is the willingness to listen, build a trusted relationship and help a young person recognise their strengths and ambitions.

If you live or work in Hertfordshire, you could make a lasting difference to a young person. Find out more or register here: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor

Or contact t ernest.moses@mcrpathways.org / 07743 513152.

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Welwyn Hatfield

Build a Butterfly House- Hatfield Library: Please find a link to poster for a lovely free upcoming children’s family event to help kick off the summer holidays with our partners at WHBC. 🦋

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The Bridge is back

The Bridge 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.

Sessions will run for 12 weeks starting on Wednesday 4th November 2026- 10th February 2027 (Not including School Holidays), Time: 12:30pm – 2:30 pm

Where: Welwyn Garden City Cricket Club, 288 Knightsfield, WGC, AL8 7NQ

You can make a referral here or please contact Alison or Karina with any questions: Alison.cowie@hertfordshire.gov.uk or karina.saunders@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Watford, Three Rivers Hertsmere

Who's in Charge every Tuesday starting 29th September, 10-12pm South Oxhey. More details here and contact lauren.samson@hertfordshire.gov.uk or fiona.girvin@hertfordshire.gov.uk to make a referral.

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Three Rivers District Council are hosting a fundraising quiz night on Friday 2nd October. View the leaflet here.

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Free personalised meal plans for Hertfordshire families – usually £86per year – now FREE (until April 2027)! 

Fed up of deciding what to eat every night?  

Want to save money on food shopping and eat better? 

Hertfordshire County Council and the local district and borough councils are working with TV chef Theo Michaels, to help local families eat healthier, reduce food costs and make life around dinnertimes a lot easier! This is exclusively for families living, being educated or working in Hertfordshire 

Join the FiveDinners website and every week you’ll get a fully personalised meal plan with a complete shopping list so you know exactly what you’ve got for dinner without having to think about it!  

To claim your free membership today simply visit your exclusive link: https://FiveDinners.com/MyCommunity and scroll down to Hertfordshire. Either enter your postcode or schools.  

This is 100% free, no payment details are taken– join over 37,000 other families enjoying FiveDinners. 

Visit: FiveDinners.com/MyCommunity 

Find out more about Step2Skills courses taking place at Hertfordshire libraries across the county.