The Government has recognised that good parenting is a major factor in improving opportunities for children and young people and increased support for parents is key to the delivery of Every Child Matters.

In Nottinghamshire, developing a consistent approach to positive parenting across all agencies has been identified as a priority within the Children and Young People's Plan, the Parenting Support strategy [PDF 490KB] and the Working with Fathers Strategy [PDF 250KB]

The term 'parent' is used in its broadest sense, to include mothers and fathers, foster, adoptive and step parents, guardians and all carers or other adults with responsibility for caring for a child, including children looked after by the local authority.

There are a number of groups and agencies across the county offering advice and support to parents, which can be accessed through the Families Information Service.

We also have a web area just for parents, offering information on things to do, getting involved and having your say.

For parents who care for children with Special Educational Needs visit: www.ppsnotts.org.uk.

A conference for parents and carers of young people with special educational needs and disabilities was held on 31 March 2011 at Bestwood Lodge in Nottinghamshire and funded by the Aiming High Pathfinder. Anthony May, Corporate Director for Children, Families and Cultural Services, Nottinghamshire County Council, gave a presentation [PPT 2.09MB] entitled “The Shaping of Children’s Services in Nottinghamshire”. A briefing note on the Special Educational Needs Green Paper [PDF 51KB] is available to read or download from this webpage.

For general advice and support visit www.parentlineplus.org.uk or call their 24 hour free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 2222.