Families reminded that we’re still here

Families across the county are being reminded that Norfolk’s organisations and agencies are still here to help as England enters new national restrictions.

Colourful postcards featuring the rainbow, which were popular with families during the first national lockdown, are being distributed via post, schools, social media, and email to urge families not to struggle alone.

The move is being made by the Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership (NSCP), which works to ensure children and young people are kept safe. The partnership includes dedicated professionals and volunteers from a variety of agencies and is led by Norfolk County Council’s Children’s Services, Norfolk Constabulary and Norfolk Children and Young People’s Health Services.

Chris Robson, independent chairman of the NSCP, said: “We know many families have been struggling with a range of competing pressures this year as a result of Covid-19.

Some of our families were already coping with health issues, relationship problems, and financial challenges before the outbreak and we know many more are now facing issues with employment, isolation, and illness.

There are now increased restrictions until at least 2 December meaning children and families will have to stay at home much more and this will be difficult for many.

Families must not think they have to struggle alone. We’re all still here to help and people shouldn’t hesitate in coming forward to access the wide range of help and support on offer.”

It was announced earlier this week that social care visits and vital face to face services for vulnerable children and families conducted by Norfolk County Council Children’s Services professionals will continue. And schools, academies and colleges will also remain open providing a vital lifeline for children and young people in terms of education, wellbeing and mental health. But the new restrictions mean that those clubs and extra -curricular activities which had re-opened will cease and meetings with groups of friends and families outside the immediate household can no longer take place.

Earlier on in the year the NSCP reached out to Norfolk’s children and young people encouraging them to come forward if they needed help via a text service and phone helpline. The campaign has also already encouraged the public to look out for Norfolk’s children and report any concerns.

The Just One Norfolk support and advice line for families can be contacted on 0300 300 0123 or log on to www.justonenorfolk.nhs.uk. Families can contact the helpline number provided for a range of support including emotional wellbeing, practical and mental health support and more.