At Godmanchester Community Academy (GCA), we understand that family life can present challenges that impact a child's learning and well-being. We are committed to supporting our families by providing information and signposting to external services that can assist with a range of needs.

Typical Areas of Support

Families may require support in various areas, including:

• Emotional and Mental Health: Access to services such as Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), local mental health charities, or school-based counselling services.

• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND): Guidance on accessing SEND support, including assessments, provision mapping, and referrals to specialist services.

• Attendance Concerns: Support in addressing issues related to school attendance, including liaising with local authority attendance officers and accessing support for school refusal.

• Parenting Support: Resources and workshops to assist with parenting challenges, including behaviour management strategies and building positive family relationships.

• Financial Assistance: Information on accessing benefits, food banks, and other financial support services available within the community.

How We Support Families

While we do not provide direct family support services, we:

• Provide Information: Share details of local services and resources that families can access for support.

• Signpost to External Agencies: Direct families to appropriate agencies that can provide the necessary assistance.

• Liaise with External Services: With parental consent, we can communicate with external agencies to ensure coordinated support for the child and family.

• Offer Guidance: Provide advice on navigating support systems and accessing services.

Managing Expectations

Please note that our capacity to offer direct support is limited. We are not able to:

• Provide ongoing one-to-one family support.

• Offer specialist interventions or therapies.

• Act as a referral agent for all services.

However, we are here to listen, guide, and ensure that families are aware of the support available to them.

Getting in Touch

If you require assistance or information about family support services, please contact the school office. We will do our best to provide the information you need or direct you to the appropriate services.

External Resources

For additional support, families can access resources from:

• Cambridgeshire County Council Family Support Services: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/children-and-families/parenting-and-family-support

• Child and Family Centres: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/children-and-families/parenting-and-family-support/child-and-family-centres

• Targeted Support Service: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/children-and-families/parenting-and-family-support/targeted-support-service

We are committed to working in partnership with families to ensure the best outcomes for our children. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out.