Bexhill MP, Huw Merriman, visited Sidley Family Hub last Friday to find out about the wide range of services which are provided to support families, young people and children across Rother by East Sussex County Council and the NHS.

Huw was given a tour of the facilities by Tina Pelini, Family Hubs Programme Manager and Aimee Richards, Community Support Manager, who explained the wide range of free activities and support which is offered to families in the area.

These activities include Play and Learn Session for early years, Small Beginnings Group to support families concerned about their child’s development, baby groups, after-school clubs, girls’ clubs, dads’ drop-ins, and autism and speech delay groups, to name but a few.

The Sidley Family Hub also provides perinatal support and provides a telephone helpline for families who need help and advice with a wide range of issues and the support with the day-to-day concerns of being a parent.

Speaking after the visit Huw said:

“It was really good to visit the Sidley Family Hub and see how their services continue to expand to meet the needs of local families and children. There is a real demand for this type of family support across the Bexhill and Battle constituency. Being a parent brings many challenges from babyhood to adulthood so it’s important that families are supported and helped to be confident parents.

“We are still seeing the impact of Covid on the development of children and young people. I consider it is essential that these Family Hubs continue to be funded to support future generations and I shall be writing to the Education Secretary to praise the Sidley Family Hub and urge that funding for Family Hubs becomes permanent.”

Tina Pelini, Family Hubs Programme Manager said:

“Family Hubs is a fantastic asset in the community and a way for ALL families to access support and activities for their children. Our doors are open and it is great to see so many families in the Sidley Family Hub.”