Devon County Council making change to support young families

Devon County Council is making big changes to how they support families with young children, and are turning to public opinion to ensure they're doing it in the best way possible.

Through this, they are inviting active participation from families, professionals, and community organisations to help influence these changes. 

The initiative comes as part of a nationwide transition of Children’s Centres into Family Hubs under the Government's Start for Life Programme.

To ensure that the transition aligns with the specific needs of local families, the council has launched a consultation period open to all.

Families, professionals, and community groups are now being encouraged to participate in shaping the future of family support services in Devon. 

Services provided may include early years education, Public Health Nursing, Midwifery services, local group activities, as well as support for issues like drug abuse, alcoholism, domestic violence, mental health, and youth services.

The consultation, available on the council's Have Your Say webpage, will run until March 23.

For those requiring alternative formats or language translations of the questionnaire, arrangements can be made by contacting childrenscommissioningsecure-mailbox@devon.gov.uk

This transition marks a significant shift, extending the age range of supported individuals from 0 to 8 years to encompass 0 to 19 years, with provisions extending up to 25 years for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

The move is intended to offer a broader spectrum of services, incorporating both targeted and universal support, and fostering collaboration with local community groups.

The council, in partnership with the charity Action for Children, which currently oversees Children’s Centres in Devon, is spearheading this transformation. 

Having already collaborated with neighbouring councils in Plymouth and Torbay, they are now extending their efforts across Devon.

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Schools, stated, "We would like to hear your views on the ways you and your family access support, where you currently go for support, what you find most helpful and how things could be improved."

The envisioned Family Hubs are expected to be located in areas of greatest need, with outreach services extending into local communities.