Sure Start - Smile (Belfast)

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

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

Family Support gives information, provides activites and support in the home and within group settings to families who live in our area.

Home visits will combine play and development with an emphasis on empowering parents.

This means supporting them through issues and priorities that are important to them at a particular time. It is essential to assess each families needs, then form an acheivable action plan which will support and empower the family to make positive changes within their life.

Target Wards for Smile Sure Start are :-

• New Lodge
• Waterworks
• Duncairn
• Castleview
• Chichester Park
• Bellevue

Please contact 028 9504 2771 for more information