Bolstering Familial Units, Empowering Child Development
Diakonie Wuppertal's Early Support Service Helps Families Thrive
In the heart of Wuppertal, Germany, the Diakonie Wuppertal - Children, Youth, Family organisation offers a unique support service called "Early Support". This service, which cooperates with the local youth welfare office, is making a significant difference in the lives of many families.
Social pedagogue Julia Rau explains that the service is designed to strengthen parents and provide practical help in daily life, ensuring healthy child development. Families are regularly visited at home for discussions about what's going well and what's currently challenging. No pressure is exerted, and interactions are based on trust.
The service includes parenting tips, home visits, assistance with authorities and pediatricians, and two playgroups. Additionally, around holidays such as Easter and Christmas, extra activities are organised.
A woman who initially came to the service while heavily pregnant and homeless was able to overcome her doubts and accomplish more than expected. She learned a profession and now provides well for herself and her child.
The "Early Support" service is provided by a multidisciplinary team consisting of psychologists, social pedagogues, family children's nurses, and family midwives. A unique feature of this service is the presence of a family midwife or family children's nurse during home visits, known as "Flex plus".
Psychologist Beate Lampenscherf supports families with children from pregnancy through the child's third year of life. Many parents who use the service come from difficult family backgrounds and received little love in their childhood.
The service does not just focus on taking children into care and control, but on providing comprehensive support to families. It aims to help parents who love their child but don't know how to be good parents. The support can range from registering the child after birth, finding a pediatrician, proper nutrition, childproofing the home, to helping build a good bond with the child.
Each year, around 160 families use the support, with another 45 families receiving more intensive support. The service is presented on the town hall square in Barmen as part of the nationwide "Week of Educational Support".
In cooperation with youth welfare, Diakonie Wuppertal offers extensive counseling and support services for families, children, and youth. These services include parenting advice, family counseling, and educational offers tailored to strengthen family life and child-rearing skills in complex social situations.
The "Early Support" service is a testament to the impact that comprehensive, non-judgmental support can have on families. It's a beacon of hope for those who need it most, providing a supportive environment where parents can learn, grow, and thrive.
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