Support for Parents and Families

Text

Family life can be wonderful, rewarding and, at times, challenging. Whether you're facing financial pressures, difficulties at home, worries about parenting or simply need someone to talk to, support is available.

We are proud of the close relationships we build with our families at Bosley St Mary's. We understand that circumstances can change and that everyone needs a helping hand sometimes.

Asking for support is a positive step, and no family should feel they have to manage difficult times alone.

How We Can Help

We want families to feel comfortable approaching us when things become difficult.

Although we cannot solve every problem, we can listen, offer practical support where possible and help families access appropriate services.

This might include support with:

• Financial difficulties, food and essential items.
• Parenting challenges and family relationships.
• Children's emotional wellbeing or behaviour.
• Changes in family circumstances.
• Accessing specialist services or additional family support.

Please speak to your child's class teacher or a member of our safeguarding team if you need help. Conversations will be handled sensitively and information shared appropriately.

Early Help and Family Support

Sometimes families benefit from additional support from professionals working together.

Cheshire East offers Extra Help (also known as Early Help), bringing together services to support children and families before difficulties become more serious.

This may include practical parenting advice, emotional wellbeing support or help with wider family circumstances.

Find out about Early Help in Cheshire East

Financial Difficulties and Practical Support

We know that financial pressures can affect families at any time.

If you are struggling with the cost of food, clothing, household bills or other essentials, please speak to us. We can help you explore available support and signpost you to organisations offering practical assistance.

Useful organisations include:

• Citizens Advice Cheshire East – Free, independent advice about money, benefits, debt and housing.
• Cheshire East Council – Information about local financial assistance, benefits and family support.
• Trussell – Information about food banks and accessing emergency food support.

Domestic Abuse and Family Safety

Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their relationships and at home.

Domestic abuse can take many forms, including physical harm, emotional abuse, controlling behaviour, intimidation and financial abuse.

Support is available for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, including children affected by what happens at home.

• My CWA – Specialist support for individuals and families affected by domestic abuse in Cheshire.
• Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Hub: 0300 123 5101
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
• If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.

Supporting Young Carers

Some children take on additional responsibilities at home because a family member has an illness, disability or other support needs.

These children are known as young carers.

We recognise the important role young carers play within their families and understand that caring responsibilities can sometimes affect their wellbeing, friendships and learning.

If your child helps care for someone at home, please let us know so that we can consider how best to support them.

Cheshire East Young Carers Service offers advice, activities and specialist support.

Supporting Parents' Wellbeing

Looking after your own wellbeing is important too.  Parenting can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly when balancing work, family responsibilities and other pressures.

These organisations offer advice and support:

• Family Lives – Parenting advice, family relationships and practical support.
• Mind – Mental health information and support.
• NHS Every Mind Matters – Practical advice for managing stress, anxiety and emotional wellbeing.

We're Here to Listen

Every family's circumstances are different, and we understand that asking for help can sometimes feel difficult.

If something is affecting your family or your child's wellbeing, please speak to your child's class teacher or a member of our safeguarding team.

We will listen without judgement, treat your concerns sensitively and work with you to explore what support might be helpful.

Together, we can help ensure that every child and family feels valued, supported and part of our Bosley community.