Make a request for Family Help support - guidance for professionals

Family Help is a service designed to support children, young people, and their families at the earliest opportunity, before problems escalate. It provides practical, emotional, and coordinated support tailored to each family's unique situation. 

Family Help practitioners work alongside families throughout their journey. This ensures the right help at the right time. 

Our principles

1. Child and family centred approach: We work collaboratively to understand each family's unique needs and strengths.
2. Timely and tailored support: Help is provided early and is customised to each family's situation.
3. Empowerment and participation: Families are supported to find their own solutions, including through Family Group Decision Making.
4. Decisive protection: Prompt action is taken to safeguard children when necessary.
5. Collaborative partnerships: We work with partners and communities to create opportunities for families to thrive. 

How to make a request for support

You can do this online:

When making a request for support:

• be open and honest. Discuss your concerns with the child, young person, and their parents/carers.
• get consent. This is essential. Requests for support are only made with the family's consent. This is their assessment, and they must be central to planning support. If consent is refused, be transparent about your concerns and continue to offer support where possible.
• work together. Listen to the family's views, co-create solutions, and coordinate the support they need.