CYP Now - In Practice: Know how - Hard-to-reach families

Recent evaluations of Sure Start and extended schools conclude that both are struggling to draw in so-called hard-to-reach families. These families are often the most disadvantaged and therefore more likely to need, and benefit from, the extra support and services Sure Start, children's centres and extended schools can offer. However, they are also least likely to visit of their own accord.

This might be down to mistrust, previous bad experiences with otherstatutory services, or simply that they don't feel it's for them.Centres and schools have to make an extra effort to engage thesegroups.

1If you're not reaching some families, it's usually because you're notdoing it right. This is about trying to get into their shoes;understanding what would make them access your services and why they'renot doing that already.

2Sending out a leaflet is probably one of least effective things you cando. You need to go out and meet people face-to-face in schoolplaygrounds, GP surgeries, bus stops, and so on. Link up withprofessionals like midwives and drug and alcohol teams to visitindividual families at home. The one-to-one approach takes up a lot oftime but it works. It's all about building relationships.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included