I coordinate the work of a team of Community Connectors who support families with children 0-4 years across Blackpool as part of the Better Start programme (please see the links for more information). I have adapted the work of the Connector service to support families and children during the global pandemic. Families can register for various packs that offer both practical and emotional support and advice, and based on individual need, we can refer them to the relevant organistaion.

We support our Public Health, Maternity and Health Visitor collegaues by supporting evidence based guidance and advice, in a peer support manner, and ensure any literature and leaflets are consistant with information they give to parents. The team of Connectors enagage with parents via the telephone and personally doorstop deliver (following strict COVID and risk assement guidelines) the packs requested by parents. The Connectors promote and distribute Healthy Start vitamins, register families for Baby Steps (Blackpools universal antenatal programme) and ensure that they are registered with a Family Hub to keep up to date with programmes and activities in their local area. We have supported parents with finacial advice, benefit checks, food parcels and pre-loved baby items. The Connectors have social media prescence on the Blackpool Better Start Facebook page, and regularly share activities, tips and games to play with their children and babies during theses challenging times. They also champion programmes such as a Sling Library, Ministry of Food, Baby Steps, Oral Health, Learn 2 Feed, and more recently the HENRY programme. 

If you would like anymore information please get in touch.