New hubs to offer support for families

A new venue offering support for families in one place has just opened in Ferndownwith another set to follow.

A Family Hub, offering access to help and support from groups including Dorset Council, NHS health visitors, midwives, early years practitioners, voluntary, community and faith sector partners and more, opened at The Centre in Tricketts Cross.

Opened at the start of February, the Ferndown facility is set to be followed by another Family Hub at Wimborne by the end of February.

Dorset was part of the first round of local authorities, announced by the Government last May, that benefited from an award of £875,450 to set up Family Hubs.

Providing visible, appealing and welcoming spaces for families, Cllr Andrew Parry, the council’s portfolio holder for children, education, skills and early help, said the hubs would provide much-needed support for people aged up to 25 and their families.

“We were incredibly pleased to open our first Family Hub at Ferndown recently,” he said.

“The Hub will strengthen the support and services we already deliver for children, young people and their families.”

Now, the new Wimborne hub has been announced, offering the same support within reach of those who need it.

“Where there is a physical presence, the Hubs are set in buildings that provide a number of services, including lots of community groups, so there will also