Improving Children's Services Networks: Lessons from Family Centres

Designed to meet a range of day care needs for individuals, families or wider communities, Family Centres are central to the government's provision of effective child care services. The study of family centres - monitoring their objectives, examining key challenges faced and evaluating approaches to practice - is fundamental to the delivery of effective, evidence-based services. This book details and evaluates expert research into the developing role of family centres in the light of current political and social trends including, the Every Child Matters legislation. It outlines the different user groups serviced by family centres; the various combinations of services provided and the contribution that these are making to positive outcomes for children; major tasks facing family centres such as optimising access to services; and important partnerships between family centres and other services such as education and health care. Based on the evidence, the authors highlight key messages for future development. A vital addition to the literature on child care services, "Improving Children's Services Networks" is essential reading for social care practitioners and students, government policy makers and planners.