Stanwix School
Family Help
Working together to support children and families
At Stanwix School, we understand that family life can sometimes be challenging. There may be times when a child or family needs a little extra support, and asking for help is a positive step.
Family Help is about working alongside families to understand what is going well, what may be difficult and what could make a difference. Our focus is always on the wellbeing, safety and voice of the child.
What is the school's role?
School is often in a good position to notice when a child may need some additional support. We may talk to you if we have concerns, or you may come to us for help.
We can:
- listen to you and your child without judgement
- provide support within school where appropriate
- help identify what may be affecting your child's wellbeing or attendance
- work with you to find practical solutions
- connect you with other services when additional support is needed
- work with professionals around your child to ensure support is joined up.
What might Family Help support with?
Every family is different. Support might be helpful if your child is experiencing:
- difficulties with school attendance
- anxiety, worries or emotional wellbeing difficulties
- friendship or relationship problems
- additional needs or SEND
- changes or difficulties within the family.
Families may also need support with circumstances that can affect children's wellbeing, such as financial pressures, low income, housing difficulties, employment or a parent's own wellbeing.
For example, if attendance is becoming difficult, we can work with you and your child to understand why and identify what might help. If financial pressures are affecting family life, we can help you find appropriate Cumberland Council or community support.
Family Help is about early support
You don't have to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for help. Sometimes a small amount of support at the right time can make a big difference.
Where appropriate, a Family Help Assessment can help everyone understand your child's needs and agree a plan together. This may involve school and, with your involvement, other services such as health, Family Hubs or Cumberland Council services.
Working with families
You know your child best, and your views and your child's views are an important part of understanding what support is needed. We believe in working with families and information will be treated sensitively and, wherever appropriate, shared with your consent.
Where there are concerns about a child's safety or welfare, school has a responsibility to follow safeguarding procedures and share information with relevant professionals when necessary.
Need some support?
If you are worried about your child, finding things difficult at home, or simply aren't sure where to turn, please talk to us.
You don't need to have all the answers. We can listen, help you understand what support is available and work with you to find the right way forward.
At Stanwix School, we want every child to feel safe, supported, valued and able to thrive.