New Family Help Website Launched to Support Families Across Westmorland and Furness
The new online hub offers a single, easy‑to‑use space where parents, carers, and young people can access trusted information on everything from parenting and early years support to health, well-being, childcare and the SEND Local Offer.
The website brings together four key areas of support:
Family Hubs
Free, friendly community centres offering practical and emotional support for families. Family Hubs provide help with parenting, child development, wellbeing, and connections to local services.
Family Information Service
A one‑stop source of free, impartial information on childcare, activities, benefits, financial support, and family rights—helping families navigate everything from early education to youth clubs and holiday schemes.
Childcare & Early Years Guidance
Clear advice on local childcare options, help finding providers, support with early years development, and information on financial help such as funded childcare and cost‑of‑living support.
SEND Local Offer
Inclusive, comprehensive support for families with children and young people aged 0–25 with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The SEND Local Offer outlines services, guidance and pathways across education, health, and social care.
Supporting families at every stage
The Family Help website has been designed around the real needs of families, ensuring support is available:
- At every stage of childhood – from pregnancy and early years to teens and transitions to adulthood.
- When it matters most – with early help services focused on preventing challenges from escalating and offering timely, practical support.
- For families with SEND needs – through clear information, inclusive services and specialist resources.
- In friendly, accessible places – with community-based Family Hubs providing approachable support without judgement.
- In one place online – making it easier than ever to find childcare options, well-being advice, local activities, rights information, and financial guidance.
Milorad Vasic, Director of Children’s Services, said:
“This new website puts all our family support in one place, making it easier for parents, carers and young people to find the help they need, when they need it.”
Councillor Janet Battye, Cabinet Member, said:
“Family Help is about offering support early, in accessible and friendly ways. This website is an important step in making sure every family knows what’s available locally but don’t forget, people can also access the services in person at our Hubs in the Eden, South Lakes and Furness areas..”
Explore the new website
The new Family Help website is now live and available to all families across Westmorland and Furness.
👉 Find the right help, at the right time: www.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/family-help