We have developed our family support service to protect and meet the needs of children, young people and their families in Leeds.
Finding out what you need
Your family will be assessed by a social worker who will work with you to help you get the support and services you need.
Some of the ways we may be able to help
Social work advice and support
Someone to talk to, to discuss parenting problems with, to let you know about other services or people who could help.
Family aide scheme
The scheme usually helps younger families with practical tasks, to help care for children at home where a family is under extra pressure.
Family resource centres
We work with social workers to help support families in their own homes.
Planned short breaks (respite care)
We can arrange planned short breaks for ill or disabled children, either in the child’s home, in special foster homes or in residential care homes.
Family placement
For disabled children, offering a break either in the child’s own home or in an approved carer’s home.
Special needs sitters scheme
The scheme offers an alternative to overnight care. Sitters look after disabled children in the child's home to give their carers a few hours break. They may also help on family outings. There is no charge for families with disabled children.
If you are interested in this service or being a 'sitter', telephone: 0113 247 8589
Equipment/adaptations
We have occupational therapists who advise on equipment and adaptations to help children with disabilities and their families to live as independently as possible. Rehabilitation officers can help children with visual impairment.
Adoption
We place children for adoption, prepare and approve adopters, give support to people who have been adopted, and support adoptive families and birth families.
Foster care
We provide short or long term fostering for children who are not able to live with their own families. Sometimes this is specialised care to meet the needs of individual children.
Children in trouble – The youth offending service
We work with Social Care, Education Leeds, West Yorkshire Police, Health, and Probation to meet the needs of young offenders and their families. The main aim is to ‘prevent offending.’
Child protection
We work with parents, carers and other organisations to help make sure that wherever possible children are safe and protected from harm.
Leaving care and after care
There are a number of services and support available for young people and children who have been looked after by Social Care.
Other organisations
- Leeds Children’s Rights Service: 0113 2395589
- Children’s Freephone 0800 6527212
- Childline – Free Helpline for children 0800 1111