At the hub of family life
Every year, approximately 2,500 families receive services via an Early Years Service Hub, which provides a central point where families with young children (pre-birth to school entry) access such services as antenatal care, Well Child health checks and immunisation programmes, and quality childcare and education for under-fives.
One of these families was Jayde, her partner Jacob, and their first child Mia (all names have been changed to protect their privacy).
The family’s initial involvement with an Early Years Service Hub was through an antenatal course run at the Hub. The Hub’s social worker got to know Jayde and Mia, and became an advocate for the family, accompanying them to Work and Income appointments and meetings with service providers.
Because the family live rurally, Jayde would often use the Hub as a base to breastfeed her baby. During conversations with staff the issue of immunisation was raised, and Mia is now up-to-date with the recommended childhood immunisation schedule. Jayde has also attended two parenting education courses run through the Hub.
A year after their first visit to the Hub, Jayde and Jacob are managing their debts effectively and maintain a good household budget. Mia is developing well and is being cared for by parents who feel competent in their role.
Early Years Service Hubs, which are administered by Family and Community Services, have been established in 13 high need areas throughout the country. They are located within or alongside existing facilities such as Family Service Centres, Heartland Services, and community centres, and are supported by an Early Years Service Worker.
Read more about the Early Years Service Hubs.
