Support over the summer 

The end of school term, the summer holidays and exam results days are approaching. Now is a good time to talk about our children’s wellbeing and mental health.

Here's an information sheet, to download and share with families to ensure they know where to find advice and support, including careers advice for those leaving education.

It highlights that whilst we hope the summer holidays will be a time to relax. Some young people may find the holidays more difficult. If anyone needs extra help, support is available and there are people you can talk with.

We've provided the download in a word document as a suggestion allowing you to pair it with any other local supporting information.

Free summer holiday clubs and food

Eligible families can sign up for free summer holiday clubs near them to help keep children entertained over the school break. Families can now search and book places near them on our Family Information Service webpages.

West Sussex County Council has again teamed up with over 40 clubs across the county to offer an exciting range of sports, kids camps, swimming, crafts and more – all with a nutritious hot meal provided.

Places are free-of-charge for West Sussex children aged 4 to 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals, subject to availability.

Community Hub support

The West Sussex Community Hub continues to operate seven days a week, providing food and essentials to people who need support, including those not eligible for free school meals.

The Community Hub can be contacted on 0330 222 7980 and is open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week.

In case you missed it...

Single Point of Access is live

A new West Sussex Single Point of Access (SPoA) for emotional wellbeing and mental health support has launched.

The new service provides a simplified single route so that children, young people, families, carers and professionals can be directed to the right service, eliminating the need to refer to multiple services.

Led by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust's Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), the new arrangement is delivered in partnership with West Sussex County Council.