Financial Support
With the cost of living in the UK rising massively, lots of people are struggling. Luckily there's help available – and it's not just for those out of work. There's support for those earning but still struggling, plus additional help if you've got children, caring responsibilities, or a long-term health condition.
You can find out more and do a quick ten minute check to see what you might be entitled to via the website below:
Help with school uniform costs
School hold a stock of good quality used uninform (including PE kit) which is organised by our PTFA. We are always happy to accept donations of good quality uniform too.
Free School Meals
Some families on lower income will qualify for Free School Meals - and as well as free meals, you may also receive shopping vouchers during school holidays, reduced cost or free school trips and a free PE hoodie.
We encourage all parents to register their details with Newcastle City Council as then regular checks are made so that if your circumstances change you will be notified if you qualify for Free School meals.
Learn more and register here:
Support for Parents
Parenting can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. We've got parenting tips for all stages of your child's life, as well as advice on how to deal with difficult situations.
Whether you’re a first-time carer, or a practised parent, Newcastle is bursting with activities and support.
Tick one worry off your list with a course on keeping your newborn safe. Get closer to nature with the kids at a community garden. Or find other parents going through the same experiences you are. What will you find?
You will find a whole host of exciting opportunities for advice, fun and friendship.
Among the many listings are;
- Workshops for new and expectant parents
- Ways to spend time as a family
- Entertaining things for your children to get involved in
- Accessible childcare
- educational services
- Organisations supporting those with specific needs
Sleep
At any given time up to 40% of adults and 50% of children (this rises to 80% with a SEND diagnosis) have difficulties with their sleep. Yet in a recent survey, almost 60% of adults felt there was a lack of support for sleep issues. Sleep problems can leave people feeling isolated and lonely.
This free helpline is run by trained sleep advisors, many of whom are specialists in working with SEND. They can talk to young people directly, or parents (and can also talk to adults, including older people, about their sleep issues).
The helpline is open 5 times a week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday evenings 7-9pm, and Monday, Wednesday mornings 9-11am. The number is 03303 530 541.
Employment
As part of the Supporting Families Programme there are three Supporting Families Employment Advisers (SFEAs) covering the Newcastle area. As the SFEAs are employed by Jobcentreplus, they have access to benefit systems and so can support families who are having difficulties with their benefits or the Jobcentre. More details from sfeaenquiries@newcastle.gov.uk
School is always happy to help, so if you have any worries or concerns, please do speak to us and we will do our best to help.