Programme overview
Our aim
We want every child in East Sussex to thrive. That means giving families the right support earlier, before difficulties become entrenched. We work together across services and places so help is simple to find and easy to use.
Why we are doing this
National reforms set a clear direction to improve support for children and families. Locally we are shifting from reactive, crisis led work to earlier, joined up family help.
What is changing
Our programme has four strands:
- Earlier intervention
Support families earlier. This includes a lead practitioner role, TAF (team around the family) coordinators and a consultation advice line for professionals. - Family help teams
Bring together early help and social work staff to offer seamless, relationship based support. - Multi‑agency child protection teams
Develop a consistent, multi agency approach with police, education and health. - Family networks and kinship care
Help families plan support and care solutions within their wider network
How we are working
- focus on earlier intervention and whole family support
- make it easier to get the right help first time
- strengthen local, place based working between professionals
- reduce the need for statutory intervention where safe to do so
What does this mean for you?
If you work with children and families, you’ll have more support and resources to help families sooner. If you are a family, you can expect more coordinated help, with your needs at the centre.
What's next?
Family First will be rolled out over the coming months, with regular updates, training, and opportunities to get involved. The focus is on building a sustainable system that helps families early, makes the most of community strengths, and ensures children are protected and supported.
Governance
The programme is overseen by the Children’s Services Transformation Board, chaired by the Director of Children’s Services.
Working groups led by heads of service and operational managers involve staff and partners across the system.