Outreach Services
We understand that every situation is distinct, which is why our service is designed to cater to every individual's needs.
Our primary goal is to support individuals by offering one-to-one assistance to children and families within the
comfort of their own home. We acknowledge the diversity of family needs and embrace a flexible and creative approach, ensuring our services are tailored to each family's requirements. Through this, we maintain an impartial and judgement-free stance, actively promoting positive outcomes for children in every scenario.
Our services are available independently and as part of a collaborative multi-agency team. By working together, we enhance the effectiveness of our support, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to address the varying needs of the individuals and families we serve.
Welfare Checks
Our team conducts Community Welfare Checks to ensure the well-being of children. These checks play a crucial role in assessing the welfare of vulnerable children, and our trained staff undertakes these cases with care and compassion.
Welfare Checks are conducted following a referral from social services and with the confirmed agreement from the family involved. Unlike law enforcement, we operate within the bounds of permission, respecting the privacy and rights of parents. We do not have the authority to enter an address without the parent's consent. We will always ensure that the welfare of the children is prioritised while upholding the principles of consent and cooperation in our community-focused approach.
Child Integrative Counselling
At Family Connections Essex, we offer specialist counselling for children and young people, providing a safe, supportive, and confidential space for them to explore their thoughts and emotions.
Using an integrative approach, our Child Integrative Counsellor tailors therapy to each child’s individual needs, incorporating talking therapy, play, and creative activities where appropriate. Drawing from person-centred, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioural therapies, this service supports children facing challenges such as:
- Anxiety & stress
- Low self-esteem & confidence issues
- Family difficulties & separation
- School-related stress & academic pressure
- Trauma & emotional regulation
By fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, our counsellor helps children develop healthy coping strategies, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.
Where beneficial, we also work collaboratively with parents, schools, and other professionals, ensuring a holistic approach to supporting the child’s mental health and development.
Advocacy
Our Advocacy Service is a support system independent of social services and the NHS. Our team is dedicated to championing children's best interests, ensuring they feel safe, heard, and valued.
This service spans across various roles, including serving as an appropriate adult for a child when a parent, guardian, or social worker is unavailable. Similarly, our team will step in as the responsible person for children over 18 years of age, ensuring their voices are heard and their well-being is prioritised.
As the appropriate adult, we can support children and vulnerable individuals in legal situations, ensuring they understand their rights and have the advocacy they need.
Our services are designed to prioritise their well-being, providing a secure environment where their voices are recognised and respected.
Private Social Work Services
Our Private Social Workers provide independent, professional support for families navigating complex situations. We offer:
- Parenting Assessments & Welfare Checks
- Supervised & Supported Contact Reports
- Advocacy & Mediation
- Safeguarding & Child Protection Guidance
Working in the best interests of the child, we provide unbiased, confidential support and collaborate with legal professionals and agencies where needed.
Reunification, Planning & Support
At Family Connections Essex, we support families and foster carers to ensure smooth transitions for children—whether returning home, settling into long-term placements, or navigating the after-care system.
Our reunification planning services focus on assessing readiness, facilitating contact, and providing tailored parenting support to help families rebuild stability. We work closely with professionals to ensure decisions are well-informed and child-centred.
For foster carers, we offer practical guidance, training, and liaison support to help navigate transitions, manage emotional well-being, and ensure the best outcomes for the children in their care.
By working together, we help create positive, lasting changes for children and families.