Family Support
The Hideaway is all about families. Along with our play space and cafe, all families can access a range of support through the Hideaway's Family & Education team. You can find out more about what's on offer and how we can help here.
As well as registering for more significant levels of on-going support, you can of course access one-off courses and help as well. Many of our courses and sessions are bookable for all through our regular funding portal. You can find out what courses are up and coming for mums here, and what help is available for dads through our Inspiring Dads project here. Help is also available for children through our Hideout children's mental health club. This is available for all families to book on to after school and runs half termly.
Some of the help on offer
Speech and Language
Good communication with our children is vital for their development. We work really closely with the local Speech and Language team to support our visitors in a range of ways. Our team have all been trained in understanding the importance of communication and our communication champions can deliver WellComm assessments if you feel your child may benefit from a speech and language referral.
We also run a weekly free Speech & Language course on a Tuesday for parents with children under 36 months.
Lending libraries
In our corridor the book exchange is available for all children and adults to help themselves to books anytime and swap for books they've finished with. Our brand new toy library can be used by all children at any time. Just pop in to use it and swap your toys. The toy library includes story sacks which your child will love.
We also have a range of digital tools to help residents who are more local. These include ipads, laptops, blood pressure machines and TVs.
Courses and workshops
Through our adult education programme and partners we offer a range of courses and resources to support parents and local residents. Regular workshops including subjects such as wellbeing, goal setting and getting a job.
We offer regular free parenting courses and training in areas such as first aid.
We will be running a new support group for new mums, parents suffering with poor mental health and more.
Signposting
We know that parenting can be really tough at times. We work closely with the local early years team and many other agencies, organisations, churches, charities and groups that can offer an enormous range of services from food bank vouchers to prayer support to referrals to the Early Years team. If you need any help and don't know where to turn, our team will be happy to have a chat. We can also offer mentoring and regular family support.
Special Needs
Supporting the families of children with special needs is a huge priority for us at the Hideaway. We have a full time qualified SENCo on our staff team to plan sessions and groups and work with parents. We have special SEN sessions during the week and a new support group for parents. Our centre has PECS to help children and a social story to help prepare them for a visit.
Mums & Dads
We have a dedicated worker for both new and young mums and another for supporting dads. We have a course for young mums and mums to be, and a separate special course for dads to be. We also have a course for dads, and mentoring support is available for both mums and dads.
Contact the team
Adult education
Karen Greenhalgh looks after the adult education programme including adult literacy. She also manages the team.
Family support
Claire Allison is our family worker in the community. She is a great first point of contact if you're unsure what help you need.