We would like to take a moment to spotlight an incredibly important approach to supporting our children and young people in County Durham: Early Help.

Often misunderstood as a service, Early Help is, in fact, a way of working. It’s a holistic approach that emphasises intervention early in the life of a child or at the onset of a potential issue. It’s about identifying needs, understanding vulnerabilities, and taking prompt action to support children, young people, and their families.

The principle behind Early Help is simple but powerful: prevention is better than cure. By addressing concerns at their earliest stages, we can prevent small problems from escalating into larger ones. It helps ensure that children and young people grow in a supportive environment where their needs are met, and their potential is nurtured.

By offering the right support at the earliest opportunity, Early Help not only addresses immediate concerns but also builds resilience and equips families with the tools they need to overcome future challenges. This proactive, preventative approach is integral to building a healthier, happier, and more resilient community in County Durham.

For more information about Early Help in County Durham, we highly recommend reading the latest Early Help Newsletter. The newsletter provides comprehensive insights, updates, and success stories about Early Help in action across County Durham. It serves as a valuable resource to better understand this approach and its significant impact on our community. We’ve attached the link to the newsletter for your convenience.

Through initiatives like Early Help, we can ensure that every child in County Durham receives the support they need, when they need it most. It’s about creating a community that nurtures its young ones, ensuring they have every opportunity to thrive.