Cumberland Council has launched a six-week consultation on the future of their family services. Members of the public are being encouraged to have their say at a drop-in event or complete an online survey.
The council’s Family Wellbeing Programme is transforming the support services provided to families and children aged 0 to 19, and up to age 25 for young people with SEND. This includes services that are commissioned by the council but delivered through other organisations. By placing a greater emphasis on the provision of early help and preventative services, the council aims to provide targeted support where it is needed, at an earlier stage and prevent issues from escalating.
Consultation is now underway to ensure that these services are driven by the needs of families and local communities. Consisting of a series of drop-in events across the Cumberland area, along with an online survey, the council is calling on the public to take the opportunity to share their feedback.
Councillor Emma Williamson, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children's, Family Wellbeing and Housing, said:
“It’s so important that every child has the opportunity to reach their potential; we want every child in Cumberland to have a nurturing and supportive environment so they can thrive.
“We have an opportunity now to re-shape our family support services so they better meet the needs of Cumberland’s families. We want to put the voices of our communities at the heart of this work and co-design our future services together. I’d urge families to come along to one of our events and share their views, or to take part in the online survey.”
The drop-in events are set to run during February at locations across the Cumberland area, and will feature refreshments and activities for young children.
The online survey has the added incentive of winning a £100 Amazon gift card. Members of the public are encouraged to complete the survey before the closing date of 15 March 2024.
The online survey can be accessed from www.cumberland.gov.uk/familywellbeing
Family Wellbeing drop-in consultation events
Monday 5 February: 09.30 - 12.30pm at Wigton Library
Monday 5 February: 2.30pm - 5:30pm at Workington Library
Thursday 22 February: 09.30 - 12.30pm at Egremont Library
Thursday 22 February: 2.30pm - 5:30pm at Whitehaven Library
Wednesday 28 February: 09.30 - 12.30pm at Brampton Community Centre
Wednesday 28 February: 2.30pm - 5:30pm at Harraby Community Centre, Carlisle