Many families face challenging periods or a range of difficulties and may be in need of support, advice or guidance to overcome these. At Whybridge we recognise that we are in a unique position, as a school, to identify and support children and families with difficulties or barriers to education in order to help all children have the fullest access to opportunities.

When could I contact the HSSW?

• to talk through family difficulties or situations 
• to think about and plan to overcome barriers to education
• for sign-posting and referrals to other organisations and community groups
• for advice around parenting or setting good routines
• to liaise with other school staff
• for support with family budget setting and financial support services
• to find networking opportunities with other families and parents
• to talk about attendance issues and possible solutions
• to talk about mental health support and accessing relevant services
• for advice and guidance contacting external support services and agencies

and much more!

We recognise that it can sometimes feel difficult or seem daunting to reach out for support or share your personal circumstances with staff at the school. The information that you share will be kept confidential and staff will only share this in-line with the school's safeguarding and data protection policy.

Your consent will be sought for making referrals to external, supportive organisations. On the, rare, occasion the school is required to share personal information without consent this will be with statutory organisations in order to safeguard and protect a child where gaining consent would put the child at risk.

HSSW Seasonal Spotlight - New Year

Whilst, for some, the start of the year is a time to reflect on 2024 and make resolutions for the coming year for others it is a time to rest and recharge. There is no pressure or expectation to replicate what others' are doing or what we see online; do what is right for you.

Please remember some of the key messages and services we covered in 2024 these include:

- Lets talk PANTS https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/services/speak-out-stay-safe 

- Mental health – Mind

- Homelessness and housing - Shelter

- Parenting and family support – Family Lives

- Cost of living support - Havering

Please see below links to the HSSW leaflet for parents and lunchtime clubs for children.