Support Available for Families

 

Support for Parents if Your Child Is Struggling to Attend School

The School Mental Health Team (SMHT) is running informal support sessions for parents and caregivers whose children find attending school difficult.

Upcoming dates:

• 17 March, 10–11.30am – Modelo Lounge, Hove
• 21 April, 10–11.30am – Al Campo Lounge, Brighton
• 23 June, 10–11.30am – Al Campo Lounge, Brighton

These sessions offer practical advice and a chance to talk with professionals and other families.

 

Helpful Parent Webinars (Free)

Education Mental Health Practitioners (EMHPs) have created short, accessible webinars for families on common issues:

• Low mood in children – https://tinyurl.com/ytb3t53j
• Helping children cope with fears and worries – https://tinyurl.com/4b23uv4a
• Transition into Year 7 – https://tinyurl.com/ycxa9yht
• Sleep difficulties – https://tinyurl.com/z7ncutef

CAMHS has also released additional workshops for parents:

https://www.sussexcamhs.nhs.uk/resources/resources-for-families-carers-and-professionals/parent-and-carer-workshops

 

Year 6 → Year 7 Transition

The Department for Education has produced a helpful webinar on how the move from primary to secondary school can affect attendance and wellbeing.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzbvKZUUj0A&list=PLXjcCX3hH9LV-atDG7rxT8IzI2AurN3XX

 

Notes About Medical Appointments

There has been a rise in school absences caused by medical appointments, particularly on Mondays and Fridays.

Parents are encouraged to:

• book appointments outside school hours wherever possible
• be aware that schools may ask for confirmation of appointments if sent via text message

Local GPs have been given new guidance to help support schools and families with illness‑related absence.

 

Family Hubs & Local Support

Brighton & Hove Family Hubs provide:

• free parenting workshops
• support for families
• guidance for young people

More information:

Parenting support: https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/family-help-online/relationship-support-families/parenting-support-through-family-hubs

Family Hub locations: https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/family-help-online/family-hubs-and-what-they-offer/how-contact-family-hubs-and-family-hub-locations

 

Holiday Activities & Food (HAF)

For families receiving benefits‑related free school meals, Brighton & Hove offers free holiday activities during Easter, summer and winter— including sports, arts and music sessions.

Details: https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/holiday-activities-and-food-haf