Children and Family Support

Cheryl Knowles                           Claire Ashton

Cheryl Knowles and Claire Ashton are part of Fairfield's Family Support and Safeguarding Team.

Our work encompasses many roles but it is essentially to build trusting relationships with parents/carers and children, based on mutual respect: to provide support, advice and information to families in our school community and to assist in finding solutions to issues or worries, especially in relation to children’s education, behaviour and well-being.  If you would like to speak with us or make an appointment please telephone the school Office on 0151 424 0123.

Our work is confidential although concerns relating to the safeguarding of children are always managed in accordance with the school’s policies and procedures.

Our work with families includes:

• Assisting families to navigate particular circumstances which incorporates providing information and signposting to, or bridging the gap with, other services, particularly in our local area
• Liaising with a range of external agencies, for example, Children’s Services, Domestic Abuse Services, Citizens Advice Bureau and Courts for core related proceedings
• Providing assistance in completing paperwork and forms
• Attendance and support at school and other agency meetings
• Offering advice in promoting positive behaviour at home and signposting to the necessary services
• Developing parenting skills and access to training and workshops in school
• Contributing to and distribute food from the local food bank
• Recycle school uniform in good condition

Our support for children is flexible and includes:

• Actively encouraging good attendance and punctuality
• Enabling children to express and cope with their feelings
• Giving time to listen and let children talk
• Promoting positive behaviour and positive attitudes to learning
• Helping with transitions
• Resolving any difficulties and providing one to one or small group support

Our work is vital at difficult times in a child’s life, for instance:

• When a parent is hospitalised or in prison
• When there is separation, divorce or bereavement within the family
• When the child is a young carer

We value and appreciate your support for your child's journey at Fairfield and look forward to working with you, your child and your family.