This week I visited Garston Children’s Centre for an update on how they are getting on and on the services they offer. It is somewhere I always enjoy visiting and I was happy to hear that they have been commended in an independent review for the work they do with families.

The Children’s Centre has long been at the heart of the local community under the bridge, with an estimated footprint of over 3000 children, but also offers a range of courses and support for adults in the area. These include adult education courses, parents groups, substance abuse support and a Kinship Carers group that meets on a Friday. They have recently launched a men’s support group with help from a willing volunteer. There is also a small pantry that helps people in need with food and toiletries.

The team work with a range of services from throughout the city and were at a partner event on Thursday with schools, Police, probation, health professionals and Health Visitors to discuss how best they can support under the bridge families.

I am aware of a problem around the Village Hall and local young people, which is attached to the Children’s Centre, and I am liaising with the police about this.

I’m always happy to visit and to see the ongoing difference centres like this make to local people. With times harder now than I can ever remember it’s good to know that there is somewhere for families who need support to turn and that there are people willing to give up their time to help.