What are Family Help Teams?
Family Help teams have been established as part of the Government’s Families First Partnership Programme (branded Child First, Family Led in MKCC). Family Help Teams support children, young people and families who need targeted help to prevent problems from escalating.,. The teams include qualified social workers and alternatively-qualified Family Help practitioners.
Who the teams support
Family Help Teams work with:
- Children and young people with complex or multiple needs
- Families who need coordinated, multi‑agency support
- Children assessed as Level 3 under the local Levels of Need guidance, including Child in Need cases
Support is tailored to each family and focuses on building strengths, improving outcomes, and keeping children safe within their families wherever possible.
What the teams do
Family Help Teams provide:
- A lead practitioner to coordinate support around the family
- Assessment, planning and direct work with children and parents
- Practical, emotional and relational support
- Close partnership working with schools, health services and other professionals
The approach is relationship‑based and focused on early, effective intervention.
Where the teams are based
Family Help Teams are currently based in Civic, 1 Saxon Gate East, Milton Keynes but will eventually be based in local communities across Milton Keynes, aligned to the four Children’s Social Care geographical areas:
- North
- South
- East
- West
This local model will make it easier for families to access support close to home and strengthen links with community services.
How to contact Family Help Teams
Family Help services are by referral only. Referrals to Family Help Teams are made through the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH).