Early Help is a way of thinking and working together between services with families that have additional, multiple or complex needs.
Anyone working with children or families is part of Early Help at the point problems are identified. The wellbeing of children, young people and families is everyone's responsibility.
Early Help is the collection of all services available in Hull. It is also how they work with families when there are additional or more complex needs. This is before the need for Children's Social Care (CSC) and safeguarding procedures.
Work with the whole family
If any member of the family - a child, young person or adult has a problem, it generally has an effect on others in the family. If the whole family is supported, it's more likely the situation will improve.
Assessing need
The Early Help Assessment which is used citywide is the Outcome Star. Where possible, professionals should aim to complete this with the family. This is to identify the level of need and any other services across the partnership that might help the family.
If you are unsure about the level of need and require more information on recognising signs of harm in children and young people, refer to the Threshold of Need Framework.
If you are a professional who wants to make an online request for Early Help support for a family you work with, complete the online form.
If you think the child has more complex needs and may be in danger or at risk, contact the Children's Services and Early Help and Safeguarding Hub.
Connect Well
If you work with people who may need to speak to someone about -
- benefits
- housing
- money worries
You can refer them to Connect Well Hull.
They may need support to try something new or get active, if so, Connect Well Hull is -
- friendly
- free
- confidential
for local people who live in Hull or are registered with a Hull GP.
Strategy and guidance
Our prevention strategy is available to download. This is as well as guidance on the Threshold of need, and guidance on completing the online form, if this is required.