A NEW video to showcase its pioneering family hubs programme has been launched by Hillingdon Council.
There are two integrated hubs, offering a wide range of services for expectant parents and families with children aged up to the age of 19 (25 with SEND).
Watch now on https://youtu.be/fAhGCOpbE74
More than 2,000 expectant parents and families with young children have been supported by services at Uxbridge and Hayes family hubs during the past year.
Rox, 17, who attends Uxbridge family hub for the mentoring programme, said: “I’ll sit there with my mentor and do Hama beads or we’ll make pancakes together.
“You can do cooking or some arts and crafts while you chat. Coming to the family hub gives you life skills and there are lots of opportunities to be part of something or learn something new.”
More than 80 local authorities in England have introduced family hubs, but most focus mainly on younger children with plans to gradually expand to older ages.
Hillingdon has incorporated services for all ages at its two hubs, which include programmes for teenagers, midwifery and health visiting, financial support and benefit advice, and parent and toddler groups.
Zamira, from Uxbridge, who has a 15-months-old daughter Alisha, said: “We have a fantastic time and its good for my daughter’s development.
“She likes music, singing and dancing and she’s made friends. It’s also good for me to chat to mums.”
Hillingdon plans a total of six family hubs, in addition to continuing to support families online and at locations including children's centres, libraries and community spaces.
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