Family hubs: Local support and advice for children and their families
“Parents across the country will benefit from greater support to make family life easier on their doorstep, as the government rolls out ‘Best Start Family Hubs’ across every local authority – relieving pressure on parents and giving half a million more children the very best start in life.”
Released 6th July 2025
Read the DfE Press Release: Government revives family services, supporting 500,000 more kids
Effecting mental health in education
The rollout of ‘Best Start Family Hubs’ across every local authority in England, while primarily aimed at supporting parents and young children, is poised to have a significant positive impact on mental health within schools. By fostering a more supportive and resourced environment for families from the earliest stages, this initiative will indirectly alleviate many of the pressures that currently manifest as mental health challenges in the school setting.
One of the most direct benefits will be seen in the reduced stress levels of both children and parents. When families have easy access to support for issues such as breastfeeding difficulties, housing problems, or children’s early development and language, the overall household environment becomes more stable. Children from stable, well-supported homes are more likely to arrive at school ready to learn, with fewer emotional burdens. This proactive approach, addressing potential stressors before they escalate, can prevent the development of anxiety, behavioural issues, and low self-esteem in young children, which often follow them into their school years.
Furthermore, the hubs’ provision of services like parenting support, sessions on managing children’s emotional needs, and interventions for reducing parental conflict will equip parents with vital tools to foster healthy emotional development in their children. Children who learn effective emotional regulation and coping mechanisms at home are better prepared to navigate the social and academic demands of school. This proactive skill-building can reduce instances of disruptive behaviour, bullying, and withdrawal, thereby improving the overall mental well-being of the entire school community.
The ‘front door’ function of these hubs, providing a single point of entry for vulnerable families to access local family help workers and children’s social care, is particularly crucial. By identifying and supporting families in need early, before issues escalate, schools will experience a decrease in the number of children arriving with complex trauma or unmet basic needs. Teachers often find themselves on the front lines of addressing such issues, and while dedicated, they are not always equipped with the specialist training or resources to handle severe mental health crises. The hubs will act as a crucial buffer, ensuring children receive appropriate support outside the classroom, allowing schools to focus on their primary educational mandate.
Moreover, the emphasis on early language support, SEND services, and activities for children aged 0-5 will directly contribute to improved school readiness. Children who start school with a good level of development and strong foundational skills are less likely to experience academic frustration and the associated mental health issues, such as anxiety around learning or a diminished sense of self-worth. The ‘Best Start Family Hubs’ will help bridge the gap for children who might otherwise fall behind, reducing the pressure on schools to compensate for significant developmental delays.
Finally, the very existence of these hubs, promoting a holistic approach to family well-being, will help destigmatise mental health support. By integrating mental health services within a broader framework of family support, parents and children will be more likely to seek help when needed, viewing it as a natural part of a comprehensive support system rather than something to be ashamed of. This cultural shift, fostered by the accessibility and inclusivity of the hubs, will undoubtedly extend into schools, creating a more open and supportive environment for discussing and addressing mental health concerns among students and staff alike.
The Team at AMHIE 7/7/2025
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