Prevention and Early Help is about recognising the strengths in children and families, walking alongside them, and ensuring that they have the right help at the right time, so that they can thrive. The Prevention and Early Help System is not defined by a single service or department; it represents a shared responsibility across our entire partnership.
The Prevention and Early Help System Board is responsible for delivery of an effective and mature system. Together, we are committed to offering quality universal advice and support, as well as the early identification of additional
needs, proactive engagement, and the coordinated delivery of a network of support services that respond as challenges begin to emerge. We will always work together to see the signs, listen with empathy, and act with purpose.
When a child and family needs help, we don’t delay, we provide that help. We act collaboratively, ensuring that support is effective and tailored to each set of unique circumstances. We know that early prevention and intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life, strengthen family bonds, and build resilience that lasts. By acting early, we don’t just respond to challenges, we prevent them from escalating thus reducing the need for more children to be in care.
This strategy demonstrates our collective commitments, and outlines how together, we will build upon our strengths to enhance the maturity of the system, ensuring that every child in Bradford is given the opportunity to thrive.
Our Vision
Our shared vision is to help to build communities where children and their families are supported early, where getting help is viewed as a strength and that challenges are met with compassion, not crisis intervention. We are building a culture of prevention, where every interaction strengthens resilience, unlocks potential, and empowers families to thrive.
Our Approach
Our approach is underpinned by the fact that children thrive best when they can grow up in the care of their own families, where love, identity, and belonging are deeply rooted. We are committed to supporting families to help
their children thrive, and doing everything that we can to support families to stay together, wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so.
We will work with care, and rigour to ensure that safety is never compromised, and that every child is protected while being nurtured in the environment and with the people who know them best. We will focus on prevention and work to empower families to overcome challenges, and build lasting resilience.