“Becoming involved in East Staffordshire Children’s Centre has really changed everything for me…one day I’d like to run my own nursery. I’d never have thought of doing it before. I would not have felt capable of anything like that.” Jemma, who lives in Burton with her partner and two children.

“At the time, I didn’t have a car, so transporting the children was an issue. But I was picked up from home and taken to the venue, and brought home too. It meant I could take part in the activities on offer.” Zahida, mother of four living in East Staffordshire.

East Staffordshire Children’s Centre: Achievements 2005/2007

Forewords: ‘Challenges and Achievements’

Foreword: Peter Gerrard, Head of East Staffordshire Children’s CentreWelcome to this document which celebrates the successes of East Staffordshire Children’s Centre over the last 15 months and the achievements of our parents/carers and families. This record of achievements features ‘case studies’ on families who have used the Centre and its services, to improve their lives and see a very real benefit from the services we offer.

Parent saysTake Nusrat for example. He is aged 37, married with four children, and says: “Frankly, the Centre is phenomenal in the range of activities, the links it helps to create between families, and other people and the friendliness of the welcome there. It brings families closer together.”

Guiding principlesTo deliver our services we have five guiding principles:

• children and young people are valued • the diversity of children, young people and their families

is recognised • services are focused on the needs of children, young

people, and their families • services are built and delivered in consultation with

children, young people and their families • wherever possible, priority is given to strengthening

universal services and providing preventative and early intervention services.

And our goal is to ensure that it becomes common practice that no parents/carers or children miss out on the advantages that Children’s Centres can bring!

Challenges and achievementsThe last 15 months have been a busy time with many challenges and achievements. The main challenge is to work more closely with parents/carers to make better use of information, therefore tailoring services even more directly to their needs.

There are many notable achievements, significantly in the lives of children and their families which we value above all…some of which are showcased in this report. We have also made impressive progress with some key areas of priority including: • establishment of, and formal recognition by, The

National Childminders’ Association of our District Childminding Support Network – which gets stronger and stronger

• consistently good Ofsted Reports across all childcare, education and crèche provision inspected

• extremely strong parents’/carers’ participation through the Parents’ Forum

• achievement of the National Association of Toy and Leisure Libraries (NATLL) Quality Mark, and being only the third Toy Library in the country to achieve this prestigious accolade

• well attended and highly valued Young Parent Support Group.

ProudI’m particularly proud of our integrated and joined up working with agencies. It allows information about services and families to be appropriately and sensitively shared...which in turn enables these agencies to better meet particular families’ specific needs.

Our emphasis on delivering outreach and home visiting, especially with families who are unlikely to visit a Children’s Centre, is also in complete accord with the Government’s latest priority policy announcements.

Every Child MattersWe are also working closely – through our Core Offer – to the Government’s five Every Child Matters Themes (developed in consultation with children). Indeed our Development Plan for 2006-2008 focuses upon the Core Offer for full service Children’s Centres: • early education integrated with childcare • family support and outreach to parents/carers • child and family health services • support for parents/carers to study and access to work • training and development support for childcare/

education providers

and further makes explicit reference to the ECM Themes of:• being healthy • staying safe • enjoying and achieving • making a positive contribution • achieving economic well-being.

Thank youFinally, as Head of East Staffordshire Children’s Centre I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff, partners and parents/carers for their hard work, dedication and commitment to the objective of delivering high quality services to our families.

A good start!We have had an eventful and rewarding 15 months since our last report and I look forward to the next 12 months. East Staffordshire Children’s Centre will continue to offer good quality and relevant services that are attractive to parents/carers without losing sight of our primary purpose – to improve children’s life chances and, in particular, to reduce the gap in outcomes between children growing up in disadvantage - and the wider population!

Peter Gerrard - Head of East Staffordshire Children’s Centre

Management Advisory CommitteeI have been the Chair of the Management Advisory Committee for several years now and before that the Chair of the Sure Start Programme Board. I have been delighted to see the Children’s Centre flourish, offering exciting, essential and often innovative services to young children and their families across Burton. The range of services, which seems to be constantly growing and changing to meet the needs of the community, is extensive and impressively responsive to need.

I never cease to be delighted and moved by the feedback that parents give us about the work and in particular the deep appreciation they express about the high level of professionalism and care offered by the staff across all departments.

This report bears testament to the dedication of the staff at the centre, importantly demonstrating how Children’s Services can come together in partnership and provide exceptional integrated provision. More importantly the report gives warm and compelling insight into how real lives have been truly transformed by this marvellous and vital beacon of excellence.

I commend the Achievement Report and the Children’s Centre to children, parents, carers and providers of children’s services in Burton, East Staffordshire and beyond.

Sandie Williams - Chair

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What is the Parents’ Forum? The Parents’ Forum is an opportunity for parents/carers who use our services to voice their thoughts and ideas about our services and help shape them.

Huge influenceSince the Parents’ Forum started in November 2005, the group has met seven times and has already been a huge influence in the services that East Staffordshire Children’s Centre provides.

The group meets at the Children’s Centre every six to eight weeks and is made up of over 30 parents/carers, male and female, from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures, with their children accessing a variety of Children’s Centre services across East Staffordshire.

How the forum worksThe forum talks about family and community issues and the Children’s Centre services. Any new ideas and thoughts on how to improve the Centre’s services are shared with the Centre staff and fed back (good and bad). Ideas and suggestions are taken very seriously. Staff also use the forum for consultation and to seek advice on any new and existing services.

A different member of staff also attends each meeting to talk briefly about their role and answer any questions from the forum. Through this, the forum has gained lots of knowledge about the services provided and the Centre’s aims and objectives.

Future fundingThe forum is also planning to use its voluntary status to apply for funding in the future. This funding can then be used to develop the Children’s Centre and its services.

Just some of the topics the Parents’ Forum has discussed and influenced:

• new gate on Waterloo Street• new electric doors• support for single parents• display boards/children’s art work• new Children’s Centre booklet• Children’s Centre safety/CCTV• changes in reception• summer activities/trips• new Nursery Newsletter• new ‘Time Out’ Crèche• new Dads’ Packs• Warm Phone (direct line to JobCentre Plus)• breastfeeding area• Outdoor play area• Special Needs Family Supporters• Centre outdoor improvements• Christmas/winter party• East Staffs District Children’s Trust Board• Daycare Trust Annual Conference (London).

Parents/carers say• “Really useful group. A chance to have parents’/carers’

views heard by people who make the decisions.”• “I enjoy the meetings because they give me the bigger

picture about the Children’s Centre. They are down to earth and everyone is asked to give their views. Everything discussed is relevant and discussed in an informal way.”

• “I like the fact that suggestions made during meetings are acted upon as well as the friendly atmosphere to make more suggestions. It helps parents/carers know each other and build a better and stronger community.”

Kauser is a mother of two daughters, aged two and four, and lives in Burton. She has accessed a number of services in the SureStart local programme, and now attends a range of activities at East Staffordshire Children’s Centre, including the Parents’ Forum.

New mumKauser found out about the support available locally when she was pregnant with her first child. “When you first have a baby, you can become lonely and isolated. My midwife suggested that I find out about what was on offer through the SureStart local programme.“I decided to give it a go when my baby had colic, and it was suggested the baby massage class might help. It was great, not just with the colic but because it gave me the chance to meet other mums, a lot of them were first-time mums like me.”

Trying out the courses“I had a look at the other courses in the monthly newsletter that comes round. There was so much on offer. It was also easy to plan because I could see what was happening and when, plus there was childcare available.

“After the baby massage sessions, I thought I’d try the First Aid course, then the yoga and the mother and toddler group. There was a really broad choice and I enjoyed doing them.”

In the crècheWhile Kauser was taking part in a range of different sessions, she knew her baby was being well looked after. “I knew that she was safe, settled and happy in the crèche, which meant that I could take a course without having to worry.”

Getting involvedSince having her second daughter, Kauser has become involved with the Parents’ Forum. “At first I was very apprehensive because I thought it would be formal. I remember being nervous when I went along the first time.

“In fact, everyone made me incredibly welcome. They encouraged me to join in and really valued my input. You can ask questions without worrying about it and put your views across.

“It’s important to know that the views of the mums and dads that use the centre are as important as the professionals who work there.

“But everyone is very helpful and makes it clear and makes you feel a part of it. You can talk about your concerns and meet other parents/carers in the same boat.”

In the future“Before I had children, I worked as an unqualified Nursery Nurse but I wanted formal qualifications. I am now able to pursue that and I’m currently undertaking a Level two Childcare qualification. I’m also doing a work placement locally in my daughter’s school to help children with English as a second language, whether they speak Punjabi or Polish.”

Help at handKauser says that the support with childcare has been extremely important to her. “Whether your partner is at work or you are a single parent, it would be impossible to do any courses, such as the childminders’ course which I had previously completed, without the fantastic childcare at the Children’s Centre.

Making the most of the Children’s CentreAt the Children’s Centre, Kauser has found a great deal of support. “My involvement there has helped me to get out, made me independent and given me choices. It’s also a lot of fun, with parties and other events. It’s great for the children, I’ve made lots of friends and met many people with similar experiences to me.”

Parents’ Forum: helping parents/carers shape our services

“Without the support from parents/carers many of our services would not be able to happen and would not be the success that they are. Thank you to all parents/carers who volunteer!” Peter Gerrard, Head of East Staffordshire Children’s Centre.

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre gave Kauser a chance to have her say in their Parents’ Forum… “the views of the mums and dads who use the Centre are as important as the professionals who work there”

Parents Forum receiving a cheque from Burton Early Years Association - this money was used to provide

services for local families in the community.4 5

Family Learning Programmes Family Learning Programmes offer parents/carers and their children the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities and gain information and advice on a variety of issues.

Baby PEEPBaby PEEP is for parents and carers of children up to the age of 12 months. It supports them in their role as their child’s first and most important educator. The programme offers ideas and activities to support baby’s learning in everyday situations. The sessions, which last for eight weeks, include a combination of books, songs and messy play activities.

AchievementsIn the last 15 months two courses have run with 19 parents/carers and 21 children attending.

Baby TalkBaby Talk is designed to help parents and carers develop their baby’s early language and communication skills. Each session, which lasts one hour and 15 minutes for six weeks, has focussed activities on different topics, and handouts are provided to take home. The Baby Talk programme also benefits from the support of a dual language member of staff.

AchievementsFive courses have run with 35 adults and 36 children attending.

Simply PlaySimply Play is a new programme based around fun activities that can be done at home, cheaply and easily, with items people may already have. It encourages children to explore and investigate within a stimulating, safe environment.

AchievementsIn the last 15 months the Centre has run one course with 11 parents/carers and 15 children attending.

Language activitiesA range of activities is regularly held to encourage a child’s speech and communication skills. These have often been run in conjunction with Burton Library helping to launch the ‘Book Start’ packs and raise awareness of the importance of sharing books with babies and young children.

Themes are used to encourage participation and have included ‘teddy bears’ picnic’, ‘pirate party’, ‘dinosaurs’, ‘jungle’, ‘going on a bear hunt’ and ‘twinkle twinkle little star’.

AchievementsIn 2006, 307 parents/carers and children have accessed these sessions.

Zahida is a mother of four who accessed SureStart services as a parent, and is now a member of staff with the Play and Learning team at East Staffordshire Children’s Centre.

Playing TogetherZahida found out about the SureStart programme when her youngest son was a toddler. “We went along to the Playing Together sessions and to the behaviour support group, ‘Tantrums to Treats’ which gave advice and helpful strategies on how to deal with your child’s behaviour.

“My son was going through the terrible twos phase and it was very reassuring to find lots of parents/carers experiencing the same thing. It was good to talk to them about it and it helped to put my mind at rest.

“Through the SureStart programme we also went on outings with other families, including trips to the theatre and farm. It was a lot of fun.”

The SureStart programme then changed to become East Staffordshire Children’s Centre.

Out and aboutTransport offered by the Children’s Centre made a big difference. “At the time, I didn’t have a car, so transporting the children was an issue. But I was picked up from home and taken to the venue, and brought home too. It meant I could take part in the activities on offer.”

Extra trainingHaving worked in schools before leaving to raise her children, Zahida found that the Children’s Centre gave her access to courses that would update her skills and experience. “I’d previously worked in a primary school nursery as a bilingual classroom assistant and found out that I could gain formal childcare qualifications through a year-long course at the Children’s Centre.

“The training was ideal with a crèche provided, which meant it was possible for me to complete it. Since then, I’ve completed the NVQ Level three in Childcare and I’m now taking qualifications to enable me to support the ESOL programme.”

Support of the teamZahida initially gained employment as a dual language Childminding Support Worker, supporting parents/carers with English as a second language. “It was good to make a difference and use the knowledge I had gained from the course.”

She now works as a dual language Play and Learning Worker within the Children’s Centre. “There are many people locally who have English as a second language, and I support them at a range of activities.

“For some, East Staffordshire Children’s Centre can be the first point of contact for other services and agencies, and this can help them feel more included in the community.”

Playing and learningAs part of the Play and Learning Team, Zahida helps parents/carers to access a variety of services, such as Baby Talk, a family learning programme that encourages early communication and language skills for parents/carers with young babies. “The parents/carers and children come in to the Children’s Centre to gain information and support and they find it’s all very sociable too.”

A parent tooAs a mum herself, Zahida understands the parents’/carers’ point of view and uses her experience to help others. “I know that the support which the Children’s Centre offers is very important to parents/carers, for confidence and self-esteem, for giving parents/carers skills and for making friends.

“I used the Toy Library as a parent and went on trips. If I had not been offered options that were parent-friendly and met staff that were incredibly supportive, I might have given up myself. I know from personal experience that it’s the friendly, helpful, encouragement that makes all the difference to a parent/carer.”

Play and Learning Outreach

Play and Learning Outreach

East Staffordshire Children’s Centre has many services that deliver Play and Learning Outreach, and these services have achieved a great amount in the last 15 months.

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre helped Zahida gain qualifications and get a job with good prospects

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Family Support visitsFamilies will self-refer or be referred by a professional, e.g. Health Visitor. The Health and Family Support team will then visit to give support or signpost as required for a wide range of issues including family crisis, depression, developmental or behavioural concerns with children, breastfeeding problems etc.

Achievements:In the last 12 months, 367 Family Support Visits were made.

Antenatal visits by MidwifeFor mums-to-be, registered with the Centre, and targeting vulnerable families.

Achievements:In the last 12 months, four antenatal visits were made.

Postnatal visits Visiting new mums registered with the Children’s Centre; advice and information given if needed. Contact made within two weeks of delivery.

Achievements:In the last 12 months, 46 post-natal visits were made.

Postnatal Depression GroupRun weekly over eight sessions by a local Health Visitor and a member of the Children’s Centre staff.

Achievements:30 mothers have accessed this in 2006.

Baby Massage GroupRun weekly over four sessions by a member of the Children’s Centre staff.

Achievements:72 mothers, with their children, have accessed these groups in 2006.

Baby Yoga GroupRun weekly over six sessions by a member of the Children’s Centre staff.

Achievements:35 mothers, with their children, have accessed these groups in 2006.

Tummies to TotsA weekly drop-in group to support all mums-to-be, mums and their children up to one year.

Achievements:The average weekly attendance in 2006 is 19 mums with their children.

Antenatal Yoga SessionsAn ongoing yoga group for antenatal mums.

Adult YogaA weekly yoga class for mums who have already delivered.

Achievements:Six mums attend.

Tantrums to TreatsA ten week course on handling children’s behaviour, run by Children’s Centre staff.

Achievements: 13 parents/carers have accessed these groups in 2006.

Crafty WorkshopsCraft activity sessions, held within other existing groups, to provide an art activity and relaxation for parents/carers.

Safety AwarenessThree weekly advice sessions, held in the family’s own home, on all aspects of home safety and child safety, delivered by a member of the Children’s Centre staff.

Respite Nursery PlacesFour Respite Nursery places are allocated each day in the Children’s Centre Nursery for families identified from a home visit or referred by an outside agency as needing respite. The places are for three or six months, depending on the need.

Achievements:In the past 12 months, 31 children have benefited from this provision.

Respite crèche placesTwo crèches each week have places specifically for children whose families have been identified as needing a short ( two hour) respite.

Achievements:36 children have been given crèche places in the past six months.

‘Time Out’ crècheThe Children’s Centre provides a weekly two hour crèche, at a charge of £5, for parents/carers who need good quality childcare whilst they have some time for themselves.

Achievements:There are 12 places available per week.

Health and Family Support Outreach

Jemma, lives in Burton with her partner Perry, and two children, Aidon, five and Konah, four months, and has been involved with the Children’s Centre since just after her first son was born.

A new faceJemma fell pregnant shortly after moving to Burton six years ago and had little opportunity to meet people. “Apart from my mum and one friend, I didn’t know anyone,” she says. “By the time Aidon was six months old, I’d split up with my son’s dad and I spent a lot of time just with my baby at home.“My friend persuaded me to go along to the SureStart under-ones session for a change. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. I gradually learnt about all the Play Together groups and sessions on offer such as Tantrums to Treats and Breastfeeding Peer Support and found I really enjoyed being out of the house.”

On courseAfter hearing about the various courses on offer, Jemma decided to enrol on the NVQ in Childcare at East Staffordshire Children’s Centre. “I’d wanted to be a vet at school, but I didn’t do any work and failed all my exams. Before I had Aidon, I’d had packing jobs, the sort of casual jobs I could do with no qualifications.“To start with I had to push myself to go along because I thought it would be a bit complicated, but I found I really loved it and wanted to learn more.”

Support with the childrenAlthough she had been reluctant to leave her baby son at first, her worries soon disappeared. “He was always happy and contented in the crèche and I knew he was fine. In fact, as someone who was never that interested in children before having my own, it was very helpful to learn how to look after him properly.”

Taking part“After finishing the NVQ Level two course, I volunteered for the Children’s Centre and took part in almost every group they had, from outreach groups to breastfeeding support. I’ve now finished my NVQ three through them and have become a crèche bank worker, who is called in whenever an extra pair of hands is needed.”

Dads tooJemma found that East Staffordshire Children’s Centre was an ideal place for Aidon’s dad to bring his son. “We would share our time with him and a couple of days a week he could take him along. He also became involved with the Parents’ Forum. “My current partner, Konah’s dad, goes along to activities such as the dads’ play and stay sessions and also the trips that are on at the weekend.”

Out and about“I don’t drive, so going on the coach trips to Skegness and the Sealife Centre in Birmingham have been great. It’s so much easier than struggling onto a train with children and baggage and I’m surrounded by friends too.”

Looking forwardJemma says her outlook has changed completely since starting that first course: “I became keen to do more, whether the Early Years NVQs or photography, which I’ve also done. I’m about to start a Foundation Degree in Childcare, which – with no qualifications – would never have been possible before. “Becoming involved in East Staffordshire Children’s Centre has really changed everything for me.”

Making plans“One day I’d like to run my own nursery. I’d never have thought of doing it before. I would not have felt capable of anything like that.”

Making friendsJemma has also enjoyed the social side of being involved with East Staffordshire Children’s Centre. “Now when I walk down the street I see ten people I know. I’ve learnt so much and made so many friends. I have lots to do – and I have a goal. It’s been brilliant for me and my family all round.”

During 2005-2007 East Staffordshire Children’s Centre developed a range of integrated services that deliver Health and Family Support Outreach. They have achieved a great deal over the last 15 months, and they are…

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre helped Jemma make friends and get qualified

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What nursery and daycare is availableEast Staffordshire Children’s Centre is registered with Ofsted for children aged between three months and eight years old and is open from 8.00am to 6.00pm each week day 50 weeks of the year with the exception of bank holidays.

The Centre provides excellent education and daycare based on the following principles:• children’s early years should be enjoyable, secure,

full of fun and a challenge • children should not be excluded or disadvantaged

because of ethnicity, culture, religion, family circumstances, SEN, disability or ability

• children have a right to the best start in life and, in partnership with you, we endeavour to deliver that very best start in order that your children can become successful members of society.

AchievementsOutdoor areaThe nursery is well on its way to creating an outdoor area that is an all year round learning environment for all

children. There is already a decking area for babies with shade sails

fitted over the baby terrace in readiness for the summer

sun. A raised planting area has also been

developed.

Jo Jingles‘Jo Jingles’ has joined the Centre for a 12 week programme with children. The sessions are designed to improve physical coordination and develop language skills through songs, dance and movement.

Holiday equipmentThe Centre has invested more money in equipment for children aged five and over, so that during holiday periods it can offer a different range of activities for children accessing the holiday club. During a recent six week school holiday it ran a group which was accessed by 18 children.

TrainingThere are now four members of the edu-care team working towards the foundation degree and two members working towards the BA (Hons) in Early Childhood.In-house training has included the Educational Psychologist introducing the Teaching Talking programme to PreSchool staff and the hearing impairment team supporting the toddler room staff to work with a child referred to the Centre through portage.All of the Roundabout Nursery staff were funded to go on a Sensory Room Training course in Nottingham. Other training opportunities for staff have included First Aid training, Introduction to the Foundation Stage, CAF Practitioner Training, Baby Effective Early Learning, Communication Matters and Promoting Positive Behaviour.

Childcare placesAt present 115 children access the Centre during any one week via the Neighbourhood Nursery Initiative (since September 2005 numbers have risen for children accessing day care through the Neighbourhood Nursery Initiative), Social Services, Children’s Centre Respite, Roundabout and the Nursery Education Grant, with many other children

attending groups run at the Centre or the crèche as a result of parents/carers taking part in Centre activities.

Parents/carers says• “I think Leon has done really well since he has been at

the Centre. I don’t think he would have done so well if he hadn’t attended. His confidence is so good now and this has helped him go into school and listen and learn there.” Colleen Carruthers, October 2005.

• “Zain has grown into a confident little boy. I always worried about Zain’s confidence levels. He has always had heaps of encouragement but he never seemed to come out of his shell with anyone other than his dad or myself.

We have all seen a big improvement in his interaction with other adults and children, and he is making friends. He seems to be doing brilliantly, many thanks to all.” Sajda and Ejaz July 2005.

Ofsted says• “Children play and learn in a warm, welcoming and well

organised environment.”• “Children are cared for by staff who meet children’s

individual requirements extremely well.”• “The quality of teaching and learning is good.”• “ Children are provided with a nutritious, appetising

range of healthy snacks and meals. The cooks and staff work very closely together to provide food that meets specific individual dietary requirements in consultation with children’s parents/carers.”

• “Resources positively reflect different cultures and disabilities.”

Mary Black, 44, lives in Burton-on-Trent with her granddaughter, two-year-old Anna, who attends the Nursery at East Staffordshire Children’s Centre.

A surprise arrivalMary found herself in need of childcare in a hurry after she suddenly became Anna’s main carer. “Her mum, my daughter, who’s 25, has serious drug problems and couldn’t cope. When Anna was six months old, she was literally dropped off for me to look after and I had to get on with it.

“For the first six months I put my head down and struggled on without much help, but it was very hard. I was a bit too proud to ask for support, but in truth I was slowly falling to bits.”

Help at handThrough Anna’s Social Worker, Mary found out about the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre:“I hadn’t been pregnant and had nine months to find out what was on offer, so having a little girl to look after was a shock and I didn’t know where to turn. But the Social Worker who was checking on us put us in touch with the Children’s Centre, which immediately organised a nursery place for Anna two days a week.”

Great for both“It was good for me to have a bit of time to look after myself and it was also fantastic for Anna, playing with other children, making friends and having fun.”

Time to learnWhen Mary decided to take an 18 week course in assertiveness training and confidence building, the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre stepped in to make it possible. “They upped the days Anna went to nursery there to three, which allowed me to complete the course. When I’d finished, I thought I’d go back down to two again, but they suggested we kept it as it was to give me time to myself and to give her a lot of quality time with other children.”

Extra supportMary also started going along herself to support groups at the Children’s Centre. “I began meeting up with the PEEP group, which is a support group mainly for young mums, once a week. All my friends of my age have grown up children, so I really value all the advice and help I’ve had through the group. We play great games with the children and learn about cheap play, which is important if you don’t have a bomb to spend. I had to give up work to look after Anna because she needed stability, so the money side of things is not always easy. Having a cuppa and a chat with the mums there is also lovely.

“We’ve also been on a few trips out, going for walks and then having coffee and cake with other children and their mums, which were all good fun for everyone.”

Grandparents’ groupNow Mary also goes along to the grandparents’ group once a month. “At least three of us grandmas, all in the same boat, get together to compare notes and talk. We all say that while we’ve got more patience this time around, we definitely don’t have the same energy as we did when our kids were young. Having the extra support is very important in helping us to keep going.”

Seeing the benefits“Having the help of the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre has helped me keep on top of things and means I can give Anna my full attention when we’re both at home. She’s also become a very happy, settled and independent little girl.

“I know that I couldn’t have got by without their support.”

Nursery and daycareDuring 2005-2007 East Staffordshire Children’s Centre and its daycare facilities for children aged three months to eight years achieved a great deal.

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre supported a grandmother in need of extra help

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Special Educational Needs (SEN) in Roundabout NurseryRoundabout Nursery offers a caring, nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged two to five years with significant delay in areas of their development.

During 2005/2007 Roundabout Nursery offered the following.

• Tots and Toddlers: have supported 17 children aged under two years with SEN and their families in a play-based group once a week.

• Assessment: 43 children have attended multi-professional assessment places within either Roundabout Nursery or Tots and Toddlers, and 34 of these have been offered places within the SEN nursery.

• Speech & Language Therapy: have assessed 34 children; supported 24 SEN children in the mainstream nurseries within the Centre (either individually or within specific groups); they have made a series of visits to 15 children from within the Centre and have supported 36 SEN children within Roundabout Nursery.

• Parents’ Group: 21 families have benefited from the once monthly support group for parents/carers who have a child with SEN.

• EarlyBird: a National Autistic Society course run by a Teacher and Senior Nursery Nurse from the nursery. The 13 week course was run for parents/carers who have a pre-school child with a diagnosis of an autistic spectrum disorder,with a parent saying “The EarlyBird programme covered a wide range of techniques and approaches to help children with autistic spectrum disorder. He has come on leaps and bounds with the help of the EarlyBird course. It was great to work in such a close group with parents/carers in a similar situation to ourselves.

I feel we all gained great knowledge and understanding into all aspects of autism. This could only have been achieved through our dedicated course tutors Helen and Mandy.”• Play Therapy: provided on a weekly or fortnightly basis

to nine children.• School for Parents/Carers: conductive education

(an educational system for children who have motor disorders of neurological origin such as cerebral palsy) – have supported 20 children and 25 carers.

• Physiotherapy: over 1000 sessions, with lots of these sessions being repeated with the same child. Over 240 different orthotics (Peter – was is orthotics?) clinics run in the Centre.

• Occupational Therapy: have dealt with 25 children and all children who are usually assessed. Over 80 children seen in group treatments.

What happened next?As the children grow older they leave the nursery, and Roundabout Nursery is very proud of the impact it has had on young lives. Over the last 15 months it has provided 35 children with special needs nursery places (minimum of two mornings a week). Of these 35 children, 23 still attend. Out of the 12 that have left:

• four went into mainstream educational settings• seven into special education• one into a special/mainstream split placement.

And of the 23 that currently attend, four also attend the mainstream provision here at the centre and eight attend mainstream provision local to their home.

Portage OutreachPortage Outreach is a home-based teaching service provided by East Staffordshire Children’s Centre and the Local Education Authority for pre-school children who may have a delay in their development.

How does it work? Each visit will last for about an hour, during which time the parent/carer and the worker will work with the child on a specific teaching target. A chart will be left with details of an agreed target and how the parent can help the child work towards this target during the week.

Portage lasts for six months, after which time the child’s progress will be reviewed…and in that time the worker will introduce the parent/carer to other Children’s Centre services that would benefit the family.

Achievements in 2005/2006Portage service has worked in partnership from the very beginning with East Staffordshire Children’s Fund. As part of a service level agreement, portage services provide a worker to support children within the old catchments area for SureStart for 16 hours per week. Portage has supported over 30 children since the partnership began.

Parents/carers say• “A vital service, my son has learnt lots of new skills.”• “A lifeline for me and my child.”• “This service has helped my son to concentrate more

when he is playing.”

Sam lives with her husband and six children, including three-year-old twins John and James who have additional needs.

Difficult early daysWith four other children to look after when her twins were born prematurely. “John, the younger twin, had had a bleed on the brain, while the older one, James, had minute scar damage. Only time would tell how it would affect them.”

“When they were three months old, our social worker started to review the situation. By the time they were nine months old, and not sitting and with their legs stiff, I knew from experience that it was not right. I’d also not had a moment to myself and there seemed no chance of it.”

Looking for helpDuring a social services review of her family’s needs, it was suggested that the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre would offer the right range of support. “Going to the Children’s Centre was the best thing we did. We could see that it offered a lot of services that were useful to us, all under one roof.”

“Since the boys’ diagnosis at nine months old, they have needed support with their gross motor skills. I have also needed to look after myself and my other children. The team working at the Children’s Centre worked out the best way of helping us, and the paediatrician is based there too.”

Professional skills.Because John needs more support than his brother, Sam has been learning conductive educational techniques with him.

Support in a crisisWhen one of Sam’s other children had to spend three months in a hospital out of the area, the staff at the Children’s Centre stepped in with extra support. “They took the boys in five days a week, when I was stuck at the hospital, which was a great help to their dad as well as me.

“It enabled us to have some kind of normality while we were going through all sorts of up and downs and meant we had one less thing to worry about.”

Aiding developmentAt the Children’s Centre’s PreSchool, the twins have received the additional support they need. “They only have problems with mobility so a special needs nursery was not appropriate. They still need the same stimulation as other three-year-olds, but they can’t move around in the same way and they become frustrated if there’s not much they can explore.

“Now they are eligible for the government funded sessions and attend five days a week. They are given so much encouragement and support; they have come on incredibly well.

“We’ve also been able to go on trips to the farm, to Blackpool and to Santa’s Grotto, which without the help and transport would have been impossible. We’ve also been able to use the toy library a great deal. Everyone is just so nice and friendly too.”

Happy and settledWith the twins thriving at nursery, Sam is happy too. “I do have my hands full, but now at least I can go shopping and pay the bills and spend a bit of time at home without being in chaos.

“For the help they’ve given us, I can’t sing the praises of the Children’s Centre highly enough.”

Additional needsDuring 2005-2007 East Staffordshire Children’s Centre welcomed a range of integrated services that support parents and carers who have children with additional needs. These services have achieved a great deal, and they are…

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre supported a mother whose children had special individual needs

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Chill ‘n’ ChatChill ‘n’ Chat is a weekly group that takes place at a large indoor play centre in Burton. The aim of the group is to give parents and carers an opportunity to meet, socialise and talk to each other whilst the children play in the soft play area supervised by members of staff and volunteers.

Achievement: 12-16 children attend with their parents/carers each week.

Parents/carers say: “Wonderful, friendly group. Good for children and parents/carers to make and meet friends. Essential part of my son’s social scene.” “I like going in the tunnel…I’m very brave now.”

Family GroupThe Family Group was set up to support families in a specific part of the Burton area. It gives families the opportunity to seek advice and support from the staff who run the group and also gives them the chance to be referred to, or find out more about, other services available to them. Parents/carers have made new friendships and gained the confidence to access other services available within the Chil-dren’s Centre and attend various training and courses.

Parents/carers say: “I have gained so much confidence, myself and my kids have made new friends. With the help and support of the staff I have had the courage to book on some of the training available too!”

Dads’ GroupThe Dads’ Group provides dads and male carers with the opportunity to spend quality time with their own children as well as socialising with the other dads and their children. There is one volunteer at the Dads’ Group and one of the

dads has just completed his volunteer training and hopes to be more involved with the Dads’ Group as a volunteer in the New Year.

Achievement: The group is well established with around 45 dads and male carers attending different groups and activities available to them.

Parents/carers say: • “I am not able to get out a lot or spend time with my

daughter. Coming to the Dads’ Group I have met new people and my daughter has made new friends. The staff and the dads are very welcoming and supportive.”

• “The staff have been great in supporting me with parenting skills, helping me get to know my son and interact with him. I have formed a great bond and can’t believe what I have been missing.”

ChildmindersThe East Staffordshire Children Come First Childminding Network is a support network for Childminders who have achieved the Children Come First Quality Assurance. There are benefits for the Childminders such as free training by Early Years and other providers, and membership to a Toy Library and Resource Library. The Childminders also receive regular visits from the Coordinator where their needs are discussed and support is offered regarding their practice.

Achievement: In the last two years, the Network has grown and there are eight registered Network Childminders and 12 that are at present going through the Initial Assessment process.

Tickle TotsTickle Tots is a group that is run for, and by, the Childmind-ers who are on the East Staffordshire Children Come First Childminding Network. The group provides an opportunity for Childminders to get together and receive support from each other and gives the children the chance to socialise together and develop their skills.

Achievements: five parents/carers and ten children regularly attend each week.

VolunteersThis is an opportunity for parents and carers to gain volun-tary experience with all aspects of the Children’s Centre. In some cases the volunteers have used their new skills and knowledge to gain employment or work as a bank worker within the Children’s Centre.

Achievement: In the last two years 44 people have trained to become Children’s Centre Volunteers, and with the skills, experiences, training, qualifications and personal references from the Children’s Centre, 22 of them have successfully moved on into employment.

Volunteer training:Volunteers access additional training including the following:• Equal Opportunities • Child Protection • Health and Safety • Working with Families in the Community • Death, Divorce and Separation, Helping Children Cope • Risk Assessment • Special Needs Workshop • Advanced Child Protection • Breastfeeding Peer Support Training • Speech and Language Training • Key Management Skills • Birth to Three Training • Managing Children’s Behaviour 0-4yrs • Managing Children’s Behaviour five-14yrs • Persona Doll Training.

Parents/carers say:• “I was a little nervous at first, but I have gained lots of

confidence over the weeks whilst volunteering.”• “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to volunteer

with special needs children.”

Nusrat, who is 37 and runs his own natural products business, lives in Burton-on-Trent with his wife, Farmeen, and four children, Mukaddas ikra Iram seven, Amina five, Hiba two and Mohammed Ishmaeel four months..

Finding outNusrat first visited the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre as a new father, both keen to learn more and as an inter-preter for his wife. “When she was in hospital after having our first child,” says Nusrat, “my wife was given a leaflet about the Children’s Centre and what activities they of-fered. Her English was not so good then, so we went along for a session on safety in the home and found out there were lots of other activities to try.”

“…the Centre is phenomenal”“Given that we have a large family, we found that we were interacting with the Children’s Centre two or three times a week as they had so many different courses and groups going on. It offers everything from IT and childcare to sessions in baby massage and yoga, which my wife has used.

“Frankly, the Centre is phenomenal in the range of activi-ties, the links it helps to create between families and other people and the friendliness of the welcome there. It brings families closer together.”

Breaking down barriersOver the last two years, Nusrat has become involved in helping the Children’s Centre to improve the communication skills of the local community. “People in the area come from a wide range of different communities and backgrounds, some from abroad and with limited English. They can be quite scared. Often they are on a low income and they may have language difficulties that prevent them getting into college or getting a job.

“Through word of mouth and with a bit of encouragement, they can go along to the Children’s Centre, build up links with other people, be matched with others who can help and have a point of contact. And, like my brother-in-law, they can access ESOL courses and improve their English.”

Nusrat also works with the Children’s Centre Parents’ Forum to ensure that parents/carers have a say in developing the services they need.

Something for dadsNusrat also helps to run and organise the Dads’ Group at the Children’s Centre. “Sometimes it feels like there is so much emphasis on the women but not much for dads. That’s certainly not true at the Centre.

“It’s been running for a few years now and we have drop-in sessions, including football and cooking classes, and arrange trips, such as ice-skating and ten-pin bowling. Anyone can attend and all are welcome. Not only do the kids really look forward to the trips, but it helps to make the dads more open-minded and increases the closeness between dads and kids. It’s awesome.”

Helping outNusrat has also completed his volunteers’ induction training and plans to become a volunteer at the Children’s Centre: “The early years are the most important times in a child’s life. I’m helping to spread the word around the community that the Children’s Centre has great people helping to create community links and that it provides great services, training and support - wherever you come from and whatever your background!

“Through the Children’s Centre, you can meet other par-ents/carers and other kids and become more confident and open-minded. I’m passionate about letting everyone know how great it is.”

Community and Employment Outreach

East Staffordshire Children’s Centre has developed a Community and Employment Team who deliver a wide range of services, and these services have achieved a great deal in the last 15 months.

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre is helping Nusrat to become a volunteer at the Children’s Centre and work with the local community

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“The training provided by East Staffordshire Children’s Centre is unique to any other training provider. The training is set in local venues such as Community Centres that are easy for the local community to access. These local venues also create a more comfortable environment for people to learn in a less ‘school like’ atmosphere. The training also has a crèche that runs alongside which is absolutely free, and the times of the training are conveniently centered around school pick up/drop off times.” Peter Gerrard, Head of East Staffordshire Children’s Centre.

Childcare TrainingThree Childcare Training and Child Development courses have been developed. Achievements • Essential Childcare Development Course - 23 parents/

carers completed the course since it began nine months ago

• NCFE (Level two Childcare qualification) and NVQ three Childcare and Education - since the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre opened, 28 parents/carers have completed this Level two Childcare qualification

• NVQ Level three in Childcare Learning and Development - since East Staffordshire Children’s Centre opened, nine parents/carers have completed NVQ three in Childcare and Education

18 students have gained employment in a childcare setting/school as a result of a childcare qualification being gained through the Children’s Centre.Current position: At present 18 parents/carers are working towards a Level two Childcare qualification within the centre, and 16 parents/carers are currently working towards NVQ three Childcare Learning and Professional Development.

ESOL Help for those who have English as a second language. Supported by crèche facilities and transport to and from venue if required. Each parent/carer is assessed and an individual programme is devised to meet their needs.

Achievement: 51 women are currently accessing this course.

First Aid This course has run six times at four different venues.

Achievement: In total 46 people have achieved a certificate in Emergency First Aid.

Food Hygiene This course has run five times at five different venues.

Achievement: In total 40 people passed the Certificate in Food Hygiene.

Back to Work Skills This course has run five times at two different venues.

Achievement: In total 15 people have gained advice and support and a professional CV to enable them to return to work.

Parents/carers say • “The skills and knowledge gained from the training was

excellent. I really benefited from it.”• “I have been able to apply for jobs with my CV and I

have been invited for interviews.”

Getting Your Voice Heard This course has run twice at two different venues.

Achievement: 16 people have been given the opportunity to gain confidence in talking in a group and speaking out.

Catch Photography Achievement: In total seven parents/carers have learnt new skills with digital cameras and taken professional photographs of their children that are displayed within the Children’s Centre.

Parents/carers say “I am now confident enough to use a digital camera and take good photos.”

Community Sports Leadership Award: This course was run once, in partnership with Sport East Staffs. Five parents/carers gained a certificate in Community Sports Leadership.

Beginners IT This course has run twice in two different venues.

Achievement: In total 15 parents/carers have gained the confidence to use computers

Parents/carers say “The training has given me lots more confidence in using the computer.”

C.L.A.I.T This course has run four times at two different venues.

Achievement: In total 30 parents/carers have completed a range of modules and developed their IT skills.

Training for dads The Children’s Centre has successfully engaged dads in training. 11 dads accessed ESOL in April 2006, five dads accessed First Aid in February 2006, 12-15 dads accessed the Cooking course over four weeks in March 2006, five dads accessed First Aid in November 2006.

Tracy lives with her husband of 15 years and her two sons, Joe, aged eight and William four, in Burton-on-Trent

Meeting other mumsTracy was encouraged by her midwife while pregnant with her 2nd son, to visit the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre and find out what support was available. “I was nervous but everyone was so friendly. I got advice and information on all sorts of other things too.

“Once my son was old enough, we started going along to the Baby Bounce and Rhyme and then the Toddler Group, which is run by the Centre. It was great fun and I made good friends too.”

Finding out moreWhile attending the toddler group, Tracy spotted posters on the walls outlining training courses and decided to try one. “There was very good word-of-mouth feedback about the volunteers’ course, so I went along. I spent six weeks learning to be a volunteer, while my son was happy in the play area. It made me want to do more.”

Qualifications“There was a great choice of courses at the Children’s Centre, all free and all with childcare provided, so that I could attend knowing my son was safe and happy. I started on the NVQ two and three Early Years course and Persona Doll training, where a special doll is used to help young children speak about their problems. I really enjoyed it.”

Into workTracy’s training gave her a taste of working in childcare: “I used to be a medical health care assistant before I had Joe and this seemed like the best way of getting back into work. I studied and had a part-time placement as a crèche assistant. I could see at first hand what the job entailed and my child was well cared for while I worked and studied.”

Other courses“I also trained as a breastfeeding peer support worker to help new mothers, which I’m really passionate about it – I found it really hard at first and I wish someone had helped and encouraged me.

“I’ve also completed a child behaviour course, basic food hygiene and basic child protection. Knowing I’m building my skills and learning to help others has been great for my confidence.”

Having fun tooThe whole family has been involved in great trips out with the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre. “We’ve been all over the place, including the Snowdome and Crackpots, and met up with people from other SureStart areas. It’s usually mums but dads do come along when they can. In fact, the dads have become mates and all meet up for football once a week now.

“Everyone is really encouraged to come along and it’s very friendly and welcoming to anyone who wants to join in.”

Looking forward“I’m hoping to eventually find permanent part-time work. When my children are older, I’d like to go into nursing. I couldn’t before, as I didn’t have the qualifications. Thanks to the SureStart courses at the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre, I now do.”

Learning for lifeThrough East Staffordshire Children’s Centre, Tracy feels she has gained a huge amount. “It truly has been life-changing. I feel I’m a better person and a better mum as a result of everything I’ve learned and the people I’ve met. I’m a happier person for not being stuck at home or in a dead-end job.

“I’ve found work, have qualifications and something to aim for. In fact, it’s given me so much in the way of job security and prospects that we will be able to move to a bigger house, something we only dreamed about before. It’s been absolutely brilliant.”

Training and Development

During 2005/2007 East Staffordshire Children’s Centre developed a wide range of training and development opportunities for parents/carers and staff

How the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre helped Tracy with training and development

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Lend and Learn Toy LibraryParents/carers can borrow a range of toys and equipment. £1 per term to join and 20p per week to borrow a toy.

Achievements • Opened for 22 months within the Children’s Centre,

(open five sessions per week) and Outreach facility at Winshill (one session per week).

• Achieved Quality Assurance kite mark for Toy and Leisure Libraries in September 2006. Only the 3rd in the country to achieve this!

• 228 members currently registered, consisting of: • 183 families • 24 childminders • five schools • seven Parent and Toddler groups • five Day Nurseries • four Pre-schools • Portage service • HomeStart.

As of November 2006, 4308 toys have been loaned out - that’s an impressive 187 toys per month on average!

Parents/carers say • “You have a large variety of toys to choose from.”

• “It is an excellent service and one which I value very much.”

• “The staff always make me feel so welcome plus mind my little ones when I go there.”

Breastfeeding SupportIncrease in breastfeeding rates: women registered with the Children’s Centre

BEST Group (Breastfeeding Encouragement & Support Team) A monthly group for breastfeeding mothers to socialise and discuss any feeding problems they have encountered. Facilitates the active support and advice gained from the peer group to build confidence and overcome breastfeeding difficulties. Average group attendance ten women and their babies. The group increased to twice monthly from December 2006 due to popular demand.

Breastfeeding peer support volunteersFollowing their own experiences of breastfeeding these volunteers undertake training to provide one-to-one support and advice to women via a phone helpline. In January 2007 another four peer supporters began training. At the end of training this will provide the community of breastfeeding women with a total of nine peer supporters.

Further training in breastfeeding management and support During the year the Children’s Centre has funded and provided training for 19 key health professionals in breastfeeding management. The training was commissioned from the UNICEF baby friendly initiative, recognised as being the leading authority on breastfeeding issues. Health professionals who attended included Neonatal Nurses, Paediatric Nurses, Paediatric Community Nurses, Maternity Health Care Workers and Health Visitors.

Further breastfeeding involvementThe Children’s Centre has participated in the development and implementation of a County Wide Breastfeeding Strategy, which has been adopted by South Staffordshire PCT and two local NHS Trusts.

Increase in Breastfeeding Rates: Women Registered With The Children’s CentreIn the past three years there have been measurable increases in the number of women registered with the Children’s Centre who have initiated and maintained breastfeeding.

For the period April 05 - March 06 this is illustrated as follows:

Time Frame Percentage Increase on Rate Previous Year

Breastfeeding on discharge from Hospital 51.8% (n=85)

one Month Post Delivery 39% (n=64) ∆ 5%

six Weeks Post Delivery 37% (n=61) ∆ 6%

four Month Post Delivery 21.3% (n=35) ∆ 6.3%

six Month Post Delivery 17.7% (n=29) ∆ 9.2%

This is significant in that these increases exceed projected targets recommended by Central Goverment, thus demonstrating the efficacy of the time and effort invested in promoting the benefits of breastfeeding, and in supporting women in achievement of that goal.

Young Parents’/Carers’ Support Group: Fridays four UThe aims of this group are to:

• promote healthy living and parenting skills • give better access to health and social care • reduce teenage pregnancy • overcome barriers to employment • improve participation in learning and education • help young people to obtain and develop better skills • involve young people in decision making • provide access to professional and peer support for very

young families at risk of social exclusion.

The Target Group is young parents/carers under 21 years of age.

The programme The group has now been running for 14 months. It is held every Friday at East Staffordshire Children’s Centre for a two hour period (11.00am - 1.00pm). Transport is provided for those who would otherwise have difficulty in transporting themselves and a lunch is provided.

Here are some of the following activities that the teenage parents have been involved with;

• Crackpotz’ ceramic café take-out box craft activity• End of Term Party• Health Visitor, weighed children, answered queries• ‘Active Music’ organised by Burton Library• Storyteller organised by Burton Library• Storyteller organised by Burton Library plus Health Visitor

with stepometers• ‘Active Music’ organised by Burton Library• Handling Children’s Behaviour plus Connexions• Handling Children’s Behaviour• Child Development with Health Visitor• ‘Shrink Craft’ activity with Mumtaz

Evaluation informs future programmes The young parents/carers are asked to evaluate each session by completing a form.

Using this evaluation, the Centre plans in the next three months to hold sessions that include advice on health, home safety, personal grooming, dental hygiene, with regular input from Connexions, Money Spider Credit Union - and many others!

Meadowside Leisure Centre As well as these topics, Meadowside Leisure Centre has created a ‘package’ for the parents/carers to include access to their gym, swimming pool, various classes and a crèche place. To complement this, the Centre is supplying the parents/carers with a gym bag, towel and water bottle.

Achievements • In the last 14 week period leading up to Dec 2006, 23

young women and two males have used the group

• An ex-attendee returned to college to complete her painting and decorating qualification

• A current attendee is returning to college in September to study for a Teaching Adults qualification

• Two attendees boosted their incomes by becoming Avon representatives

• An ex-attendee returned to hairdressing

• An obvious increase in the attendees’ concerns for each other

Young parents/carers say • “I now know a lot more than before, especially

how you can get infections.”

• “Always wear a condom in any situation.”

• “I realised how much my boyfriend means to me, how much I trust him and how much he respects me.”

• “We learned about smear tests and what they can find out from them.”

BEST PRACTICE: Focus on… Lend and Learn Toy Library… Breastfeeding Support …Young Parents’/Carers’ Support Group: Fridays four U

Lend and Learn Toy Library18 19

Sally Ward is a full-time Edu-carer at East Staffordshire Children’s Centre. She is Team Leader in the Pre-School which is for children aged three to five years

Children’s needs“At East Staffordshire Children’s Centre, every day is different because the needs of every child are different,” says Sally. “We are an inclusive setting and so I am involved in working with children at various stages of their development. As a key-worker I am responsible for planning activities that will challenge and stimulate children and help them develop skills in order to progress on their learning journey.”

Training “There is a great deal of training on offer and personal development is encouraged at the Children’s Centre. This September I started a Foundation degree in Early Years. The knowledge and experience from this course enables me to develop my practice at the Centre.”

Playing to learn“At East Staffordshire Children’s Centre, we focus on creating independent learners. We ensure children have a wide range of stimulating activities to choose from, paying attention to age, stage and the needs of children. We are always evaluating the learning opportunities we provide and record any special moments to share with parents/carers. The most important thing for us is that all children are individuals and that learning should be fun!”

Parents/carers too“Involving parents/carers as much as we can is also very important. We are very privileged to be able to share these children with their parents/carers and it is important that we build up a good relationship so that we can provide the very best start for children. As a key-worker I meet with parents/carers before their child starts with us to find out all about them; what they like to play with, comforters, dietary requirements, special needs etc. I use this information to ensure that we meet the child’s needs when they arrive.”

Families first“When building up a relationship with parents/carers sometimes it becomes obvious that they could do with some extra support. Families as a whole can need help; parents/carers may not be coping well with children’s behavioral problems, mum could have postnatal depression. Here I can refer them to the health and family support team who are based upstairs at the Centre.

“The great thing about the Children’s Centre is that parents/carers can seek the support of all these professionals under one roof. Any extra help they might need is likely to be nearby.”

On to school“I support children making the transition into school; by being there for the parents/carers and child, I tend to become really involved with the families who come to the Centre. It’s great when parents/carers bring back children who’ve happily gone off to primary school, so we can see how well they are doing. It makes me feel quite emotional to know that they have settled in and are making progress. It’s good to know that we’ve played a part in making sure they are happily settled into school.”

Teresa Allen is a Health Visitor linked to East Staffordshire Children’s Centre. She is involved with the support group held for teenage parents/carers at the Centre

Understanding and supportTeresa visits the young parents’ group once a month to find out want they want out of their services. “Initially we are looking for where there are gaps in the market in helping teenage mums, and hopefully in time teenage dads too, with their antenatal and postnatal care,” she says.

“Sometimes the girls are very young and so are still in full-time education. They need someone who can listen and understand their particular problems. They also need to have the services there when they want to access them, without anyone being judgmental. Other issues facing teenage mums might be access to help with housing, training and careers.”

Focus on East Staffordshire Children’s CentreEast Staffordshire Children’s Centre acts as an access point for many other services and can deal with other concerns as they appear. “The areas I deal with involve development in children from birth to five, child protection, health promotion and any issues faced by teenage parents/carers. At the Children’s Centre, we can deal with other concerns we might come across, such as bereavement, depression and domestic violence. I can also refer them for emergency nursery placement, respite childcare for those who really need a break and longer term nursery provision.”

Teen friendlySue Ramsay and Pam Bale, who run the Young Parents’ Group and are the lead professionals for the group, meet regularly with Teresa and other agencies for strategy meetings to see how successful the group has been. “It’s very important that young parents/carers are aware of what is out there. Often they don’t communicate, so we don’t know they are there and that they have a need. We aim to be teenage friendly, by giving them, for example, credit card sized address lists with a whole list of contacts of every agency on it.”

SharingTeresa says it is lovely to see the young mums opening up: “Often when they come along they are very shy and introverted, but by talking to the other girls they start to build up a support network. We also give them practical help like transport. Without transport they can be very isolated and getting about is quite a task. It makes such a difference to them. There are also sessions aimed at making them feel better, such as having a beautician or a nail artist come in, while the children enjoy the crèche. Often they are reluctant to be away from the children, so we have to build up their trust to let someone else look after them.

“For parents/carers and children together, there are storytelling sessions, trips to the library, days out bowling and going to a farm. Often the most important aspect is providing them with a meal, as often they don’t have a lot of money. Mums and children sit down together and can have a chat. If those mums enjoy it, they’ll tell their friends and so we come to hear of new people who might want to come along. We see new faces all the time.”

A helping hand“Being a teenage parent can be hard. Expectations can be unrealistic, whether it’s the pain of childbirth or why their child isn’t speaking fluently at 18 months. Together with Pam and Sue, we have established a group that approaches young parents/carers in a teenage-friendly way, which is there wherever we can be and addresses their need.”

How partners have benefited through working with East Staffordshire Children’s Centre

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Abbot Beyne SchoolAnglesey Primary School*AudiologistsBurton Addiction Centre (BAC)Burton Albion F.C.Burton Caribbean CentreBurton Childminders’ GroupBurton CollegeBurton Community PartnershipBurton Domestic Violence Support GroupBurton Education CentreBurton Enterprise SupportBurton Families Support TeamBurton JobCentreBurton LibraryBusiness Enterprise SupportCAMHSCarr Gomm Housing AssociationCASES Caterpillars Pre-school PlaygroupChild and Family CentreChildmindersChildren and Midwifery Department, Queen’s HospitalChildren’s Community NursesChildren’s Society, SwadlincoteChristchurch Infants School*Chuckle Bunnies Day NurseryCitizen’s Advice BureauCommunity and Learning PartnershipsCommunity Fire Safety Technicians, Burton Fire StationConnexionsCouncil LinkCross Street ClinicDe Ferrers*Fountains SchoolDieticians

District Advisory Team EducationDistrict Youth and CommunityEast Staffordshire Borough CouncilEast Staffordshire PCTEducation Offices, Staffordshire County CouncilGrange Infants School*HeadteachersHealth VisitorsHeart of Burton PartnershipHoly Trinity Primary SchoolHomestartHorninglow Infants School*Integrated Drug and Alcohol Services (IDAS)Jigsaw Mentoring PartnershipLansdowne Infants School*Learning Disability TeamsMeadowside Leisure CentreNursery NursesOccupational TherapistsOrbit Housing AssociationOrthotics Services Outreach Advisory ServicePaget High School*Pakistani Community CentreParents’/Carers’ GroupsParent PartnershipsPaediatricians, Acute ServicesPaediatricians, Community BasedPaediatricians, Hospital BasedPaulet SchoolPhysiotherapistsPsychologistsPrincess Resource CentrePupil/Parent Support GroupsQueen Street Community CentreRegeneration and Leisure (Uttoxeter)Regeneration and Partnerships Project (ESBC)RELATERickneld Schools* School Nurses, Cross Street Clinic

SARACSEN PortageSENSSShobnall Leisure CentreSmilee Faces Social Care & Health Paediatric Social Worker, Queen’s HospitalSocial Services Area Office, Burton on Trent: • ACPC Colleagues • Family Support Workers • Foster Carers • Group Managers • Independent Chairpersons (Case Conferences) • Team ManagersSpeech TherapistsSRB office, Paget High School*Staffordshire Adult IAG PartnershipSunshine Day NurseryTeenage Parents’/Carers’ Support GroupTeachersTeaching AssistantsTeachers of Children who are DeafUxbridge Youth and Community CentreVictoria Community School*Voluntary OrganisationsWinshill Health CentreYMCA

* Extended Schools Cluster

Some parents/carers have been so inspired and empowered through working with East Staffordshire Children’s Centre that they developed their own groups, which often obtain support and advice from the Children’s Centre. Examples of these follow

Special StartSpecial Start is a home visiting service for families who have a baby born prematurely. It aims to work with parents/carers to give their baby a ‘Special Start’ in life. It has been found that early stimulation and careful handling of pre-term babies has a very positive effect on later learning.

Unique service in the MidlandsSpecial Start is a pilot programme whose need was identified as a direct result of the Portage services. It is the only service like this in the Midlands, and also it:

• supports new parents/carers in transition from hospital to home

• supported ten families within the pilot project

• offers opportunities to meet other parents/carers in similar situation.

What parents/carers say• “This has been a really helpful service because there

hasn’t been any support for my family until ‘Special Start’ began.”

• “A vital service for my family. Thank you!”

• “Special Start has been just great. I wasn’t sure what to

expect with regards to my baby’s development, but this service has been really supportive.”

Mothers for OthersIn 2006, a group of mums, suffering from postnatal depression, accessed the support group run by a local Health Visitor and a member of the Children’s Centre staff. When this group came to the end of its eight week duration, the mums recognised that they still needed the support they had been getting from each other. So, they asked to set up their own group, called Mothers for Others, which is a weekly drop-in run by, and for, mums suffering from postnatal depression and feeling vulnerable. This is held at a local Community Centre (Queen’s Street) on Friday mornings. It continues to have a regular attendance.

SNaPSThe SNaPS group (Special Needs and Parental Support) was instigated by a parent of a child with special needs, by approaching a member of staff at the Children’s Centre and asking what support was available. Together, they decided that a support group was needed for parents/carers, run by parents/carers. The group began to meet at the Centre on the first Friday of each month from January 2007, offering advice, support and a chance to chat sociably about the ups and downs of living with a child with special needs in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. five families accessed the group’s last meeting.

“If it was on every week I’d come” The Centre’s input is the venue and, in the future, funding to set up a phone peer support service. The group has only met twice but a verbal quote we had was: “I can honestly say that I really enjoyed that and I’m looking forward to coming next time. If it was on every week I’d come.”

Burty’s T.E.A.M. When SureStart moved into the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre in September 2004 the SureStart Parents’ Forum ended and a new Children’s Centre Parents’ Forum was formed. However, a group of parents/carers from the SureStart Parents’ Forum, with support from the Children’s Centre, decided to continue the SureStart Parents’ Forums good work by setting up a new voluntary group.

This group was named Burty’s T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Achieves More). Burty’s T.E.A.M attended Key Management Skills training through the local Volunteers Centre, formed a management committee, started to apply for funding and organised lots of fundraising events.

For familiesBurty’s T.E.A.M provide opportunities for local families to get together, to meet other families and make new friends, through providing new and exciting activities for families in Burton. Burty’s T.E.A.M continues to work closely with the Children’s Centre and through this partnership and a great publicity campaign. Burty’s T.E.A.M has gone from strength to strength over 2005-2006 becoming a household name with many members.

Here are just some of the services that Burty’s T.E.A.M has provided:

• Regular ‘Family Play & Stay’ sessions • Holiday Clubs • Trip to Ash End Farm • Family Disco • Bingo Nights • Family Fun Days • Splash Time • Safety Awareness Day • Indian Head Massage Training • Trip to Ripley Railway • Toddle Waddle • Fun Day at Library

Our partners Parent groups that have been supported by East Staffordshire Children’s Centre

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Julie has two children, Ellis, who is 3½ and who has diabetes, and Natalia, who is aged one.

A difficult startWhile six weeks pregnant with her second child, Natalia, Julie found out her son Ellis had health problems. “I discovered that my little boy had diabetes. He also had food allergies to nuts and milk products, which I knew would make going to nursery very hard, if not impossible. “I was having a troublesome pregnancy with Natalia and was supposed to be resting, so it was difficult to manage everything. My Midwife suggested that I contact the East Staffordshire Children’s Centre. Since then, I’ve not looked back.”

Getting settled.Ellis has been going to the nursery at the Children’s Centre since he was two: “When I explained Ellis’ difficulties to nursery staff there, there was no hesitation and they were keen to help. There were lots of questions about what he’d need and what training they’d require to look after him. “They also found out about the special food Ellis needed so that they could make it for him. Linda, the chef, was incredible, going to great lengths to make his meals as exciting, and as close to the other children’s, as possible.”

At the nurseryJulie says that nursery staff were simply brilliant when caring for Ellis. “I didn’t need to worry about him unduly. For the first time, I had a bit of freedom.”

Reassuring mum tooMichelle, Ellis’ first key worker, made sure Julie was looked after too. “She was the first person outside the family to care for him and I always felt secure that she could cope with his needs. She took on board so much more than I expected and wasn’t worried about blood testing or the frightening hypo attacks that diabetics can have. “Michelle just shone, making little allowances for Ellis without making him feel different or that he was missing out. He’d always had trouble trusting adults but he really trusts her. Sam, who is now his key worker, and Sally and Nicola too, have continued to give him brilliant care.“I can go off and do the weekly shop and do all the things other people take for granted, without having to worry about him at all.”

More involved Julie has since joined the Parents’ Forum and has become the parents’/carers’ representative on the Children’s Trust Board. “I used to work in banking before having my children, so now I put my business head on and get involved at the Children’s Centre. I had fantastic support from the Edu-care managers such as Hayley, who made sure I both got involved and was supported.”

Looking forwardDetermined to look to the future, Julie hopes to put her experience to good use by working with special needs children.

“I knew I’d be able to complete the NVQ Early Years two course, along with my placement at Roundabouts, the special needs nursery, because everything is under one roof, both children are well looked after and they juggle things around for me. Without that level of help, all in one place, it would not be possible. “Until I can return to work, I’m becoming as qualified as I can, thanks to the help of the Children’s Centre. Financially it may be a struggle at the moment, but at some stage in the future I can complete my NVQ three course and eventually go back to work.“

Back on trackJulie now uses the nursery four times a week and says that there is support whenever she needs it. “It’s so brilliant. You can always pop in for a chat and there’s always a warm welcome and they all make time for you.”

Getting better“It’s been life-changing for me and given me a freedom I didn’t have. I have the adult company and conversation that I might not otherwise have, while it has made life for Ellis as near normal as possible. “It’s no exaggeration to say it’s totally changed our lives for the better.”

How East Staffordshire Children’s Centre helped Julie whose son has diabetes and food allergies

East Staffordshire Children’s CentreWaterloo Street . Burton-Upon-Trent . Staffordshire . DE14 2NJTel: 01283 233400 Fax: 01283 233406Email: admin.escc@staffordshire.gov.ukwww.staffordshire.gov.uk/education/Childcare/ccentres/eaststaffs