Our Early Help Service is available to children and their families and is made up of two types of services that combine in different ways to form Torbay’s Early Help offer.

Here is the link to the assessment portal where you can register and complete an Early Help Assessment

These are universal services and targeted services.

• Universal services include: Post-16 education, schools, early years settings, housing and finance advice and support, family hubs, children’s centres and youth centres, GP surgeries, libraries, maternity services, specialist public health or community nurses and community connectors
• Targeted services include: Early Help Panel, Family support, health professionals, mental health services, special education needs support services, jobcentre plus, school attendance and exclusion support, domestic abuse services, alternative provision, housing services, police, substance misuse services and targeted youth services.

Our Early Help Universal offer covers an umbrella of services which are available to all children and families. Please click here to open more information and how to contact that service.

• Housing & Cost of living surgeries
• Youth Homeless Prevention Service
• Family Group Conference
• Parenting Drop ins
• Parenting Teens Group
• Reducing Parental Conflict/EPIC partnership for whole family support
• Youth Service

You will see by clicking on link, there are options for: MASH, Fostering, Professionals and Early Help.

This will provide the facility for partners, parents, young people and members of the public to make referrals into MASH and Early Help directly, allowing Early Help to have its own front door. 

Need advice with benefits, housing or finances?

Please attend one of our Housing and Cost Of Living Surgeries running from family hubs across Torbay where you can speak to a Benefits Adviser and Housing Officer.

Benefits
Checking what benefits and financial support you might be able to get to help with your living costs

Housing
Support with your housing needs, signposting and liaison with housing services.

• Dealing with notice to quit and the eviction process.
• Illegal evictions.
• Tenancy rights.
• Devon Home Choice.
• Housing standards and dis-repair

Surgeries are held once a month with appointments available at the following times, so please book the date and time that suits you. This will save you waiting to see an advisor.

• 9:00 – 9:30
• 9:30 – 10:00
• 10:00 – 10:30
• 10:30 – 11:00

To see the diary pages and make a booking click here.   Select the location you prefer to see the dates and times available. 

At our Parenting and Play Coffee Morning, you can expect warm and friendly support from our staff. Whether you’re a new parent navigating the early stages or an experienced one facing new challenges, we’re here for you! Our team can provide advice on topics such as:

• Child Development: From milestones to behaviour, we’ll share insights to help you understand your little one’s growth.
• Parenting Strategies: Need tips on positive parenting, routines, or communication? We’ve got you covered.
• Self-Care: As parents, it’s essential to take care of ourselves too. We’ll discuss ways to recharge and manage stress.
• Community Resources: We can connect you with local services, playgroups, and other helpful resources.

Remember, you’re not alone on this parenting journey. Drop in for a coffee, some playtime, and a supportive community!

This group is run by: 0 to 19 Torbay, Action for Children team

Suitable for: parents and carers with a child under five years

For dates and times, please see our what’s on pages

Our Parenting Teens Course is designed to support parents and caregivers navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. This course spans five weeks, with each session focusing on essential aspects of parenting during this critical phase:

1. Session 1: The Teenage Brain – Teen Independence & Responsibilities – Making a Connection
   • Understand the fascinating world of the teenage brain.
   • Explore strategies to foster independence while maintaining a strong connection.
   • Address responsibilities and expectations within the family.
2. Session 2: Cognitive Triangle – Addictions – Wellbeing / Coping Strategies – Push and Pull Factors
   • Dive into the cognitive triangle, understanding thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
   • Discuss addictions and their impact on teens.
   • Learn about coping strategies and ways to enhance overall wellbeing.
   • Explore the push and pull factors influencing teen behavior.
3. Session 3: Exploitation – Internet & Social Media Safety – Behavioral Agreements
   • Address the risks of exploitation and how to protect teens.
   • Navigate the digital landscape by discussing internet safety and responsible social media use.
   • Establish clear behavioral agreements within the family.
4. Session 4: School Education – Self-Identity & Friendship – Problem Solving & Negotiation
   • Explore the role of education in a teen’s life.
   • Discuss self-identity, friendships, and peer relationships.
   • Develop problem-solving skills and effective negotiation techniques.
5. Session 5: Restorative Practice – Bringing It All Together – Unanswered Questions and Feedback
   • Understand restorative practices and their application in family dynamics.
   • Reflect on the entire course and integrate key learnings.
   • Address any remaining questions and provide feedback.

Our Parenting Teens Course aims to equip you with practical tools, insights, and strategies to strengthen family relationships during this transformative phase. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or new to the journey, this course provides valuable guidance. Join us and invest in nurturing healthy connections with your teenagers!

This group is run by: The Family Intervention Team

Suitable for: parents and carers with a teenager

For more information or to book your place, visit our what’s on pages

Are you a parent or carer facing challenges in their parenting? Look no further! Our four-week Parenting Workshop is here to empower you with effective strategies and practical tools. Whether you’re dealing with temper tantrums, sibling squabbles, or bedtime battles, we’ve got you covered.

Workshop Highlights:

• Behavioural Challenges: Learn how to tackle those tricky moments when your little one’s emotions run high.

• Playful Approaches: Discover the magic of play in fostering connection and understanding.
• Praise and Encouragement: Explore the art of positive reinforcement.
• Booking Required: Reserve your spot now!

Location:

• The Beehive, Paignton
• Contact Info: 01803 210200

This group is run by: 0 to 19 Torbay, Action for Children team

Suitable for: parents and carers with a child or children under five years

Join us as we create a supportive community of parents, share insights, and celebrate the joys of parenting. Together, we’ll build a foundation of love, patience, and resilience.

👉 Booking is essential! Don’t miss out—reserve your spot today, see our what’s on pages for dates and times.

Share this page with fellow parents who could benefit from this transformative workshop. Let’s nurture confident, compassionate parenting together!

Are you a parent or carer facing challenges in their parenting? Look no further! Our four-week Parenting Workshop is here to empower you with effective strategies and practical tools. Whether you’re dealing with temper tantrums, sibling squabbles, or bedtime battles, we’ve got you covered.

Workshop Highlights:

• Behavioural Challenges: Learn how to tackle those tricky moments when your little one’s emotions run high.

• Playful Approaches: Discover the magic of play in fostering connection and understanding.
• Praise and Encouragement: Explore the art of positive reinforcement.
• Booking Required: Reserve your spot now!

Location:

• Torbay Family Hubs
• Contact Info: 01803 210200

This group is run by: 0 to 19 Torbay, Action for Children team

Suitable for: parents and carers with a child or children under five years

Join us as we create a supportive community of parents, share insights, and celebrate the joys of parenting. Together, we’ll build a foundation of love, patience, and resilience.

Booking is essential! Don’t miss out – reserve your spot today.

Share this page with fellow parents who could benefit from this transformative workshop. Let’s nurture confident, compassionate parenting together!

Links to videos and resources for parents:

Video and text Home – Relationship Matters  (includes one plus one videos)

One plus One Youtube videos See it differently

Anna Freud Centre videos and text  

Parents or Careers in Conflict

The impact of child triangulation on a child’s mental health

DAD.info | Free expert advice and support for Fathers includes Parenting After Separation (familycourses.org) free access to 11 module programme about co-parenting for separated parents.

RPC Services in Devon Parental Relationships – Devon Children and Families Partnership (dcfp.org.uk)

Making Marriage Work | Dr. John Gottman – YouTube

Co-parenting apps. Our Family Wizard is free to families receiving benefits, Referral forms in the office.

Free support for military parents.

Are you parenting with someone who you argue with a lot?
Is there conflict in your relationship?
Have you separated and you are struggling to co-parent without tension?

Would you like to reduce the arguments and disagreements in your family and cope better with stress? Would you like to enhance your relationship with your current partner, or improve communication with your ex or the other people helping to raise your children?

Free online and in-person courses to develop better family relationship and reduce parental conflict are based on the Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities approach and draw on years of expertise of working with parents.

Find out more at Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities

Further information can be obtained from the Children’s Society web page

The Youth Homeless Prevention team provide support to 16- and 17-year-olds who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, as part of the Early Help approach at Torbay Council.

Who does the Youth Homeless Prevention team support?
Are you a 16- or 17-year-old who has been asked to leave your home?
Are you a parent or carer struggling to maintain your young person staying at home? Or are you considering / have you asked your young person to leave?
If so, please get in contact with the Youth Homeless Prevention team via the email address or phone number below and we can offer advice and support.

(Please note, if you are over the age of 18 or are a household, please contact Housing Options on 01803 208723).

What support can the Youth Homeless Prevention team offer?
We are very much focused on prevention and support, with young people and their families being central to our thinking and planning. We understand that it can be a stressful time, so we take the time to truly understand what is going on for you and your child and why they may be homeless or at risk of homelessness. This then helps us to know what support, advice or signposting is needed. We can link you in with other support services (with your consent). We can also, where necessary and appropriate, support young people who are homeless to access accommodation in Torbay.

Email: yhp@torbay.gov.uk
Phone: 01803208723 (request to speak to the Youth Homeless Prevention team)
Web enquiry: https://forms.torbay.gov.uk/HousingEnquiry

If you would like support or one of the team to get in touch, please complete this form.

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If you would like to know more about youth homelessness in the UK, please watch this video:

Watch this video to find out more about the online understanding your pregnancy course

New online course – Understanding your preterm or sick baby

Watch this video to find out more about the online understanding your baby course

Here’s a taster about the understanding your child’s feelings course

New online course – understanding the impact of the pandemic on your child

What is a Family Group Conference (FGC)?

An FGC is an opportunity that is open to all children, young people and their families across Torbay who are experiencing any kind of difficulties. It is completely voluntary, and you can access the service without the need for a referral.

The FGC service helps families to hold their own meetings which are completely family led and recognises the children, young people and their families as the key decision makers in the planning. You will be supported by an independent coordinator who can make all the arrangements with you to enable your meeting to happen and they would ensure all relevant people attend. Your meeting would include people who are important to you and your children. This can be family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, community members and professionals that support you. You are fully involved in the planning of the meeting and identifying who should attend.

We would always encourage children and young people to take part in their FGC whether that is in person or via a person called an advocate who will share their wishes and feelings on their behalf. An advocate is independent and is there to support the child or to be their voice when they cannot attend. All children aged five and above can access the advocates.

Why do we offer this service?
We believe that families can make good, safe and supportive decisions about the care of their children and with the help of the extended network around you, you can get the help and support you need to improve your situation for you and your children.

It is important that you and your family have a voice and can tell professionals what support you do have and what else you need to ensure your children are kept safe and well and are supported to grow and develop into healthy adults.

Why is this different to other meetings?
An FGC is completely family-led and offers families the opportunity to take the lead in the planning. You as a family write your own plan and everyone, including the children have a say in what that looks like.

An FGC is an informal meeting which is held in a neutral venue agreed between you and the coordinator. We want your meeting to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible and will provide you with refreshments during your meeting.

The FGC service is an independent service which sits within Torbay Early Help Service. We are not involved with any decisions being made about your children. We are there to help to arrange and facilitate your meeting for you.

What does an FGC look like?
An FGC is split into three parts:
1. The information giving stage – this is where any professionals will be invited to attend your meeting to share any information and tell you about any support you could access and use in your plan.
2. Private family time – during this stage, all professionals will leave the room to allow you and your identified network (your family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, or community members) to have open and honest discussions about the current situation in private. You will also put together your plan during this stage of the meeting.
3. Agreeing the plan – Once you have finished putting together your plan, the professionals will be asked to come back in so that we can look at your plan together and make sure that we have all the relevant information and timescales for when things will be done, for e.g. if a professional has offered to refer you to a service, we would ask them to provide a date of when they will do it by. The coordinator will help you to make contingency plans in case any part of your plan is disrupted by unforeseen circumstances, for example if someone is unwell and cannot do what they said they would do.

Once your family plan is agreed, the coordinator will ensure that your plan is written up and sent out to everyone that attends your meeting so that everyone knows what was agreed.

The coordinator will also make arrangements with you for a review of your plan within 12 weeks to see how things are going. You will be able to continue with your current plan if it is working well or make amendments to it if needed.

If you would like to know more about FGC, please click the link below which will take you to a video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB4ON_6m95Q&t=321s

Alternatively, you can contact us on 07824 537242 or email FGC.referrals@torbay.gov.uk

Find information, advice, videos and more here. 

Most of us have disagreements about things in our relationships – whether it’s coming home late, spending too much time on the phone, or what to watch on TV, having a difference of opinion is normal.

Not all conflict is damaging, but if your disagreements are frequent, intense and poorly resolved it can have a negative impact on your children’s health and emotional wellbeing.

Children who often witness adults arguing, slamming doors or ignoring each other sometimes feel that they are to blame, it can negatively impact on their self-esteem, mental and physical health, behaviour, how well they do in school, and their relationships with others both now and in their adult life.

Conflict in relationships can occur in all types of families: between biological parents, step-parents, foster and adoptive parents, parents and grandparents and separated and divorced parents to name just a few.

If you recognise this is happening in your relationship, please come along to one of the Drop-in Sessions at the Family Hubs for parents/carers.

For more information, please contact:
sally.perryman@torbay.gov.uk
mobile: 07747 565 453

Here’s links to other organisations that could provide information and support.

• Race Equality Foundation comprehensive information about what is conflict and how to address it.
• Parental conflict toolkit (raceequalityfoundation.org.uk)
• Home – For Baby’s Sake (forbabyssake.org.uk) for new parents.
• Parental conflict: the impact on children and how local authorities can help on Vimeo
• Listening to your child’s voice after separation – Cafcass – Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service
• Parenting Plan – Cafcass – Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service
• What is Decisional Balance? – The Heart’s Way (theheartswayforcreativeclinicians.com)
• DAD.info | Free expert advice and support for Fathers and free separated parents co-parenting programme for mums and dads.
• Parenting after separation courses
• Dr Gottman what makes marriage work Making Marriage Work | Dr. John Gottman – YouTube
• Dr Gottman video, four destructive behaviours that can destroy relationships Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse | The Gottman Institute: Relationship Behaviours that Lead to Failure – YouTube
• and how to avoid them
• The Easiest Way to Improve Your Relationship | The Gottman Institute – YouTube
• Co-Parenting Apps to help separated parents communicate effectively about their children
• Co-Parenting Apps Which One To Choose | Divorce Cheshire (separ8.co.uk)
• Resources for parents and carers – Cafcass – Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service
• Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service, on-line information for parents and carers
• Family Lives.org Information and advice Relationship problems | Family Lives

Some video’s you might find helpful

When we argue with our partner or ex-partner, we can get caught up in the heat of the moment. At times like these, it’s difficult to find a way forward. See it differently want to help you see things differently, and do things differently. Click on this link to watch their video.

Making marriage work: here’s the science behind happy relationships! Dr. Gottman outlines the findings, tools and techniques that have helped thousands of couples from around the world build a “Sound Relationship House.”

Relationship Matters

When two people share responsibility for a child, no matter whether they are still together or separated, the relationship between them has a direct impact on the mental health of their children.

Do you recognise any of these things?

• Are you arguing, having rows, shouting all the time with each other about things like, money, how you parent or housework?
• Are you worried about splitting up?
• Is there sulking, silent treatment, slamming doors or walking away from each other?
• Are you anxious or worried and is this getting in the way of managing everyday life?
• Are you not able to say sorry after an argument and move on?
• Are you using hurtful texts, emails or social media against each other?

Watch the video to find out more information

Advice and guidance for parents and carers in conflict or separating from the Anna Freud Centre

Emma Morris, member of the Family Ties Team at the Anna Freud Centre, talks about the impact that parental conflict can have on children.

You will see by clicking on link, there are options for: MASH, Fostering, Professionals and Early Help.

This will provide the facility for partners, parents, young people and members of the public to make referrals into MASH and Early Help directly, allowing Early Help to have its own front door. 

The Family Intervention Team offer focused family support to families with complex needs through targeted support. We work flexibly and creatively with parents and their children in their homes and in groups, to increase the skills, confidence and abilities of all family members to live their daily lives in a positive and safe way.Key areas of work:
• To offer emotional and practical support to parents and their families, in their own homes and in the community.
• To offer a whole family / family centred restorative approach to families with emerging and complex needs within a preventative approach.
• We attend meetings, groups and deliver training as requested.
• Develop and build a trusting relationship with the children, young people and parents to help alleviate or break their social isolation and increase capacity and resilience.
• Provide advice and support to families and professionals linking with community resources.
• Communicate and foster positive relationship with our agency partners to ensure best interests of the child and family.

FIT link worker
One FIT worker is linked to each Family Hub. They are available to have conversations and signpost over current worries and support needs your family might be having at the time.

Parenting Support
Various offers of parenting support through face-to-face groups are being offered in the Hubs- please look at our timetable for up to date information on these.

Email:  earlyhelp@torbay.gov.uk
Phone: 01803 208100

The Supporting Families Programme is a Government funded initiative that has been running since 2015.

When families experience a lot of challenges all at once these can be the most difficult times for them. The Supporting Families programme is aimed at working with families at these times by providing targeted interventions for families with complex problems. These problems might include the following:-

• Unemployment and financial instability,
• Poor school attendance,
• Mental and physical health problems,
• Involvement in crime and antisocial behaviour,
• Domestic abuse and poor family relationships,
• Children who are at risk of abuse and exploitation,
• Substance misuse and insecure housing.

The four key principles of Supporting Families is helping you at the earliest possible time you experience a problem, working with your whole family, working with other agencies in partnership who can provide different types of support to you, and ensuring we make a real difference to you and your children.

The Supporting Families programme in Torbay is delivered via the Early Help Partnership. For more information click on the link, speak to a Family Hub worker or contact us by clicking here.

Preparing You for Parenthood and Beyond!

Are you an expectant or new parent of a baby under a year old? Triple P for Baby is here to guide you on this incredible journey! Our evidence-based program offers practical insights and support to help you thrive as a parent.

What’s in Store for You?

1. Group Sessions: Join us for four engaging 2-hour group sessions where you’ll gain essential knowledge:
   • Understanding Your Baby: Decode those adorable baby cues and foster a deeper connection.
   • Building Your Relationship: Lay the foundation for a strong bond with your little one.
   • Parental Emotions and Communication: How new parenthood can change your relationships.
   • Life Impact: Explore how your baby’s arrival influences your wider life.
2. Personalised Support: After the group sessions, enjoy four one-to-one appointments tailored just for you. We’ll help you apply what we’ve discussed at home, ensuring a seamless transition into parenthood.
3. St. Edmunds Family Hub: Our warm and welcoming environment awaits you at St. Edmunds Family Hub. Connect with other new parents, share experiences, and build lasting friendships.
4. Referral Only: Triple P for Baby is available through referrals. Ask your midwife, health visitor or Family Hub to connect you with this invaluable resource.

Refreshments Provided: Because parenting is better with a cup of tea or coffee!

Begin your parenting journey with Triple P for Baby. Let’s nurture confident parents and happy babies together!

Remember, you’re not alone—we’re here to support you every step of the way!

Venue: St. Edmunds Family Hub, Torquay

This group is run by: 0 to 19 Torbay, Action for Children team

Suitable for: parents and carers with a baby

For dates and times, go to our what’s on page and search for Triple P Baby

The Supporting Families Programme is based on the principle of a whole family approach, providing support to all members of the family, including children, parents and grandparents. The programme’s holistic approach helps families to address and overcome multiple challenges they might be facing relating to unemployment, housing, education and health.

Find out more here

A family’s needs could be anything from an educational issue for one child, a health difficulty, financial issues and perhaps housing, which require more than one professional’s expertise. Through working with a TAF, support needs and difficulties can be addressed together to avoid things escalating.