What we do
We work with babies, children, young people and their families and carers, to provide a family focused approach to preparing for children with medical complexities to be discharged safely back into their community setting. The overall aim of the team is to provide a holistic assessment of family needs. This can include medical, social and psychological support ensuring that when a need is identified that there is a plan of care around that need.
We use the Early Help framework to assess, plan and support families through a time in their lives when they need help. We work closely with the families’ home local authorities to enable the support at home to be seamless for a safe discharge.
Areas of needs that we commonly support with:
Housing – if there are safety concerns about the family home, we can offer a Home Environment Assessment which will be completed with parents and carers, to understand if there are any home needs which may impact on the health, safety and wellbeing of babies, children and young people.
Finances – the team are well placed to offer support with finances; whether this be support from Citizens Advice for benefits review, an application for emergency charity funding or longer term grant applications. We also offer employment support advice for when a parent or carer is required to take time off work to be present in hospital settings.
Vulnerable families – when there are needs around parenting or families in need of extra support with communication.
Improved family relationships including parental conflicts – we can support families who are experiencing parental conflict and offer guidance and further referrals of support if required.
We work closely with other organisations who can offer practical support to the whole family to ease the pressures due to long term admissions. This can include the Rainbow Trust, your family’s local authority, voluntary sector agencies who can support families in their home areas, and your local health teams.
Who we are
Becky Humphreys – Lead
We currently have a three Complex Care Co-ordinators and a Family Support Worker in the team.
How to contact us
Telephone: 0191 2824594
Email: [email protected]
Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8.45am – 4.30pm
Information correct as at 06 November 2025