Family support for care leavers who are parents
Being a parent is exciting and rewarding, but we all need some support and advice from time to time. It might also make you think about your own experiences.
Talk to your personal advisor (PA). They will listen to you and can guide you to resources and advice. They can also tell you about our parent events and parent online group.
You can speak to your GP too. If you still have a midwife or health visitor, you can also contact them.
Care leaver parent support
Family support worker offer
As a care leaver in West Sussex you can get two Family Support worker sessions at home (or wherever you would like to meet). This is in addition to the five sessions offered to all parents from our early help services which cover:
- supporting your baby’s development
- bathing, changing and dressing your baby
- safe sleep and setting up a nursery
- bottle making and sterilising
- healthy relationships
Your PA can help you to access this offer.
Care leaver parent events
We hold parenting events for our care leavers with their babies and children throughout the year. You're very welcome to join. It's really relaxed and a great way to meet other care leaver parents. You can bring a partner or friend with you, if you want.
We meet at different locations across West Sussex and can help you with travel. Talk to your PA about these events. They can come with you too, if you'd like.
We look forward to seeing you!
Care leaver parents' group
We also have an online group of parents who share advice together and give feedback about the things that are important to them as parents. They help us plan future trips and group events.
They have also organised for you to receive a baby hamper they have put together for expectant mums and dads who are care leavers.
Speak to your PA about this hamper. They will arrange for you to receive it.
Corporate grandparent gift
With your permission, your PA will give your child a gift when they are born, for their birthday and for a festive gathering of your choice.
This will happen while your are receiving visits from your PA on or around your child's celebrations up until you are 25 years old.
Other support for parents
West Sussex Family Information Service
The West Sussex Family Information Service (FIS) provides information, activities and support services for you and your children. This includes:
- toy libraries
- days out
- leisure activities
- parent groups
- parenting classes
Find out more and search the directory for FIS activities and support.
West Sussex Family Hubs
Family Hubs offer support, information and guidance to parents. You can visit anytime they are open. They have access to computers free of charge and social spaces to meet other parents.
You can get help and advice from a hub assistant at the front desk.
If it would help you, your PA can visit the hub with you and introduce you.
Find details, including opening hours, of your nearest Family Hub.
West Sussex library services
West Sussex libraries have family corners. Find out more on their Family Corner Facebook page.
You can find out more about library services on their what's on pages.
Advice about single parenting
There are many reasons why you might be a single parent. Whether you are separated from your child's other parent and co-parenting or they are completely absent, you can find help.
See:
- NHS advice for single parents
- information on the Gingerbread website
You can find information about court processes below.
Financial support for parents
Find information on our page about financial support if you are pregnant or a parent.
Parenting difficulties
Disagreements with your child's other parent
You and your child's other parent might find it difficult to decide what should happen to your children if you have split up. You may not agree who the children should live with or who they should see.
This may mean you are thinking about going to court, or you may already have a case. You can find advice about the court process, what to expect and how to behave on GOV.UK's guide for separated parents about children and family courts.
Legal advice
Find out where you can get legal advice on the Cafcass website.
If your child is involved with Children's Services
If your child is involved with Children's Services, you can get help and advice from the Family Rights Group.
Contact with your children
If you are not living with your child or children, they:
- may have a social worker now
- might have had a social worker in the past
If you are finding contact with them difficult, speak to your social worker or PA. They can talk to the right people and help you get support.
West Sussex Pause
If you are a mum separated from your child, you might want to consider support from the West Sussex Pause project. The project helps women to develop skills and confidence for the future.
Talk to your PA - they can refer you.
Other help
Find information if you're a dad who is a care leaver.