Little Steps Sure Start Antrim

Sure Start services are provided through an holistic approach, bringing education, parenting support and health services together in a coordinated way. They are designed and delivered at a local level through a network of local statutory agencies and community-based voluntary organisations working in the fields of early education, health and family/parenting support.

The core services are:

• outreach and home visiting
• support to families and parents
• primary and community healthcare and advice
• support for good quality play, learning and childcare experiences for children, both group and home-based
• support for speech, language and communication
• support for all children in the community, recognising their differing needs

• The types of services and support offered will vary among each local Sure Start, but may include:

  • antenatal support and advice
  • postnatal support including breastfeeding support
  • programmes for babies and young children such as baby massage, baby yoga, play sessions
  • programmes for parents such as parenting courses, nutrition, nurturing, fathers groups, support for ethnic minority families
  • health related support from midwives, health visitors and speech and language therapists