The sound of laughing children, music and families making new friends could be heard at Kendray and Worsbrough Family Centre, as we celebrated the launch of our exciting new pilot Family Hub this morning (Thursday, 31 August).

Following a ribbon cutting ceremony by Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr James Michael Stowe, families were welcomed in to meet a wide range of services who can offer guidance, help and support in the local community whenever they need it.

As well as the activities provided at the Hub, including messy play, a sensory garden, dinosaur sand pit, a children’s entertainer provided lots of fun, with singing, dancing and an amazing finale – a foam sprayer!

Family Hubs are the next progressive step in delivering our family and start for life services.

Cabinet Spokesperson for Children’s Services, Cllr Trevor Cave, said: It was a pleasure to see so many families enjoying this event, from families who are familiar faces, to new people such as grandparents, who will be able to benefit from what’s on offer here.

Our Family Hubs will allow people to share their needs once, and our amazing team of professionals work together like never before to address any challenges families might be facing.”

The Family Hubs and Start for Life project is a £3.4 million investment to make sure you and your loved ones flourish in the Barnsley area. From birth right the way through to young adulthood, we're here for you through Family Hubs, which will be easily accessible throughout the borough.

Family Hubs will build on the success of our Family Centres, providing additional services that are easy to access.

As well as accessing Family Hubs buildings, families in the Barnsley area will be able to access a wide range of services and activities in other community locations and online.

You still have the chance to help fill in our Family Hubs consultation. Share your thoughts on how we propose to deliver Family Hubs services in our communities at barnsley.gov.uk/consultations/family-hubs-and-start-for-life-consultation - your voice matters!

For further information you can visit the Family Hubs Facebook page: facebook.com/BarnsleyFamilyHubs