Sure Start is a Government initiative targeting 0-4 year olds and their families recognising the importance of supporting parents/carers and the value of quality experiences to very young children.
The purpose of Sure Start is to work with parents and children to promote the physical, intellectual, social and emotional development of pre-school children – particularly those who are disadvantaged – to ensure they can flourish at home and when they get to school. (DHSS&PS Guidance 2000)
The Sure Start Programme is supported by key foundation principles; which are;
To co-ordinate, streamline and add value to existing services for young children and their families in local communities;
To involve parents;
To avoid stigma;
To ensure lasting support;
To be sensitive to local families needs; and
To promote the participation of all local families
Sure Start Projects are locally based and operate in areas of highest need; through a holistic range of services and partnerships and through the development of local Projects must reflect that investment …
adds value to existing/planned services;
is based upon evidence of what interventions are successful
imaginatively respends to local need
is informed by strategic direction.
Within all Sure Start Projects these core elements must be evident, ensuring the needs of parents and children are being met and an effective response to Sure Starts’ objectives exist.
The core services of Sure Start are:
Outreach and home visiting services, to make contact as early as possible in the child’s life and draw families into using other services;
Family support, including befriending, social support and parenting information, both group and home based;
Good quality play, learning and child care experiences for children, both group and home based;
Primary and community healthcare and advice, and
Support for children with special needs, both within the Sure Start services offered and through signposting to more specialised services where necessary Disability Awareness Training undertaken by staff in this group (includes Makaton Beginners)
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