'Family Hub' launches at The Potteries Centre - and it's free to join

A new 'Family Hub' has launched at The Potteries Centre with free groups running every week. The groups, run by Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Family Hubs team, will take place in the Community Room on the lower mall every Tuesday.

Family Hubs offer bespoke advice and guidance, empowering families and offering opportunities for fun, education and support where needed. They are running as part of a project being delivered with over £3.5 million of Government funding.

Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services, said: "We want our Family Hubs programme to be easily accessible for families across the city. These new groups really support that aim as well as driving footfall into the city centre, supporting the local economy and businesses.

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"Family Hubs are a really important part of our Family Matters programme, which is already helping to reduce the number of children in care after just nine months. Extra groups running from the Potteries Centre mean that more people can tap into the advice, guidance and fun on offer and have access to a wider range of services and activities."

All of the groups running from The Potteries Centre are free to join and there is no need for residents to book. Sessions include:

• 9.30am-11am - Sensory fun for babies: A gentle, fun session with lights, music and learning through sensory experiences for babies up to 12 months old.

• 1pm-2.30pm - Playful parenting: Bring your toddler along for some fun play. Learn about how you can support your child through play, create the best home learning environment and provide a strong base for future learning. For toddlers aged one to four years.

• 3.30pm-4.30pm - Make and take: Have some crafty fun and make something to take home and treasure. For children aged four to 11 years.

Family Hubs are currently open in Tunstall, Normacot, Bentilee, Chell Heath and Shelton with other sites currently being developed. For 24/7 access to services, or for families that prefer to access online, the city council’s Digital Family Hub is available at familyhub.stoke.gov.uk

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