Merton Council is now part of the Changemakers initiative, which aims to improve local family support services. The initiative, a partnership between Youth Endowment Fund and Foundations – What Works Centre for Children & Families, is a big step in ensuring families get the help they need in challenging times.

Parenting has a huge impact on a child’s development, especially in their early years. Some parents face challenges like mental health issues, problems with school attendance, arguments with their partners, and financial stress.

Over the next two years, Merton Council will collaborate with local experts in places like Merton’s Family Hubs to ensure the support they provide is well-suited to the community.

These intervention programmes will focus on addressing early issues that may lead to more serious problems, such as youth violence.

Jane McSherry, Executive Director of Children, Lifelong Learning, and Families at Merton Council, said: “We are excited to join the Changemakers initiative, which will help to improve the well-being of families in our community.”