Croydon Council is set to consult with residents on a proposal to expand its Family Hubs services to include older children and young people up to age 19, or 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The move aims to create a more integrated and accessible support system for families across the borough.
The consultation, scheduled to begin on June 30, 2025, will seek public input on realigning the current Children Centre model into the Family Hub Locality Model. This expansion would build upon the existing services offered at Children Centres, which primarily cater to families with children aged 0-5, and extend support to older age groups.
Councillor Maria Gatland, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, emphasized the importance of adapting family services to meet evolving needs. The Family Hub model aims to provide a more holistic approach, offering a range of services including parenting support, housing and debt advice, and youth services.
The council has already made progress in establishing Family Hubs, with a successful model in place at Woodlands in Selsdon. The Samuel Coleridge Taylor Centre (SCTC) is also slated to open as a dedicated hub for older children and young adults in September 2025, further expanding the network of local, accessible services.
This initiative aligns with the Mayor's Business Plan 2022-2026, particularly the priority to ensure that children and young people in Croydon have the chance to thrive, learn, and fulfill their potential. The consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of family support services in Croydon, ensuring they are responsive to the diverse needs of the community.