Parenting & Family Support

We recognise that at times, children and their families may require additional support to navigate the challenges of daily life.

Early help for our children and families is about offering assistance as soon as a concern arises, spanning from the foundation years through the teenage years. This support may involve direct engagement with children and families or referrals to specialised agencies and support services.

At Newnham St Peter's C of E Primary School, we have a dedicated and experienced team available to address and discuss your concerns. Our pastoral team provides confidential support and advice, especially for children encountering social, emotional, and mental health challenges, covering areas such as friendships, self-esteem, bereavement, transitions, anxiety, emotional regulation, and school avoidance based on emotional factors. Supported by Young Minds Matter, we offer early help support for mild to moderate mental health issues, including low mood, anxiety, and challenging behaviour. Ms Aga Przybylska serves as our Senior Mental Health Lead, coordinating the school's mental health support and working closely with Miss Gemma Matthews, our PSHE Leader.

Additionally, we provide guidance and direction regarding family matters, such as parenting (establishing routines and boundaries, addressing sleep problems, managing behaviour, etc.), parental mental health, relationship support, housing, and finances. We also offer various adult education opportunities for parents and carers seeking to acquire new skills. If necessary, we may recommend referrals to more specialised support services, such as Early Help or Children's Social Care, and are open to discussing these options with you. Mrs Jo Harris serves as a Family Support worker.

Please don't hesitate to approach us for a conversation.

Our pastoral care team conducts regular meetings to discuss support for vulnerable children. We collaborate closely with our SENDCo, Mrs Samantha Howells, to provide a holistic approach to supporting children and meeting their needs. When suitable, we may consider support through the SEND graduated pathway for social, emotional, and mental health needs, utilising My Plan, My Plan Plus, or in some cases, an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan). 

Agencies supporting mental health and wellbeing:

• Young Minds Matter (YMM)
• Teens in Crisis (TIC+)
• Child Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
• School Nurse
• Young Carers

Family Support:

• Early Help
• Children's Social Care
• Barnardo's
• Families First
• Home Start
• Caring for Communities and People (CCP)
• Gloucester Foodbank
• Gloucestershire Bundles
• Parental Education Growth Support (PEGS)
• Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service (GDASS)
• Citizens Advice Bureau

Forest of Dean District Council - Community Wellbeing Service