School Early Help & Local Offer (Lancashire)

What Early Help Is

Early Help means providing support to children, young people and families as soon as emerging needs are identified — before issues escalate and while problems are still manageable. It’s a voluntary, family‑centred approach that helps parents/carers, children and young people get the right support at the right time.

How Early Help Works in Lancashire

In Lancashire, Early Help is delivered through partnership working with schools, community services and the Children and Family Wellbeing Service (CFW). This includes:

• A whole‑family assessment (Your Family’s Early Help Assessment) to identify needs and plan support.
• Lead practitioners who coordinate support and liaise with other services.
• Team Around the Family (TAF) meetings to review plans and actions.

Support the School Can Provide

We recognise that everyday life can be challenging and that families may need extra support at times. At our Lytham Hall Park Primary School and Nursery we offer:

• A welcoming contact for families and an initial conversation about concerns
• Advice and strategies for wellbeing, behaviour and attendance
• Signposting to external services (e.g., health, housing, CFW services)
• Referrals for parenting support and specialist services
• Links with Lancashire Family Hubs and community support groups
• Pastoral and emotional support at school (where available)

Lytham Hall Park Primary School and Nursery designated lead for Early Help is Mrs Rebecca Howcroft (Pastoral Lead).

Who Can Ask for Early Help

Early Help can be requested by:

• Parents/carers
• Young people (if appropriate)
• School staff already supporting your child

The process begins with a conversation and with your consent, a plan can be developed to help your family.

Partner Services & Lancashire Support

Children and Family Wellbeing Service

A countywide service offering practical support for children, young people and families. They work with local agencies to ensure families receive early help where needs are identified.

Family Hubs Network

Part of Lancashire’s Early Help offer with services including parenting support, wellbeing advice, community activities, and signposting to further help.

SEND Local Offer

Early Help links into the SEND Local Offer (support for children with special educational needs and disabilities) which is published by Lancashire. This includes information and services for children from 0–25 and should be consulted alongside this page.

Useful Links

• Lancashire County Council Early Help pages

• Family Hubs information

Key Local Support Services in Fylde:

• Children and Families: The Fylde Children and Family Wellbeing Service, located at Chapel Walks, Kirkham (PR4 2TA), provides support for families and young people.

• Mental Health and Wellbeing: Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust offers access to the Wellbeing and Mental Health Helpline, Talking Therapies, and crisis recovery services like Fylde Coast Light Lounge.

• Adult Social Care: Residents can access support via Lancashire County Council for care needs, or through local partner agencies like Empowerment Charity

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• Support for Carers: The Lancashire Carers' Service (N-Compass) offers support for unpaid carers (0345 688 7113).

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• Employment Support: The Fylde Coast WorkWell service provides early support for people with disabilities or health issues.

• Specialist Support: Services include Fylde Coast Women's Aid (FCWA) for abuse victims, Citizens Advice, and substance misuse services like Inspire.