As many families are now more extended than ever, with more parents working longer hours, and with media and technology ready to impact our children’s lives from the touch of the button, being a parent in the 21st century is by no means easy.  As we all know becoming a parent doesn’t come with an instruction manual or guarantees. However, there is help out there!

Extended Schools in partnership with Sure Start Northolt are providing support through parenting programmes offered across Greenford, Northolt and Perivale.

Below is the Family Links Parenting Programme timetable for this term. The programme is open to any parents or carers that want some help, advice or support about being a parent or would just like to meet other parents to share experiences and hopefully learn a trick or two that will make family life easier. Each programme is for 10 weeks and is run by trained Family Links Group Leaders.

Below is some feedback from parents that have attended the courses in the area.

“I would recommend to parents because it has helped me feel emotionally stronger, which is the beginning.”

“Would you recommend the Nurturing Programme? Yes without a doubt. I’ve been telling everyone all the time you can’t fail to gain something from the course. You will get what you put in and you won’t regret it. Even better if the course was longer!!”

“I felt most of the people in the group were genuine and I felt comfortable. The atmosphere was brilliant. I would definitely recommend the group to other parents and already have!!”

Moving Forward

Moving forward is a one day workshop designed to help those who are separated or divorced cope with the break up of a relationship. It has been written to help you work through the complex feelings associated with the break-up and to learn new techniques which will help re-build your life.

Relate London North West, Civic Centre, Harrow

17^th October 2009 10 – 4pm Cost £60*

Parents Apart

The course looks at the impact of divorce and separation on children and their parents. It offers an opportunity to share concerns and experiences as well as offering strategies for helping children cope with this change in their lives.

Relate London North West, Civic Centre, Harrow

12^th September 2009 10 – 4pm Cost £60*

Counselling Skills For Non-Counsellors

This is a 22 hour course for those engaged in a helping or supporting role privately or professionally. The aim of the course is to provide students with an understanding of the basics of counselling, including the three stage model based upon Carkhuff and Egan. Also included are interview management ethical issues and the opportunity to practise the skills of basic counselling.

Relate London North West, Civic Centre, Harrow

24^th September – 15^th October 2009 cost £200* plus accreditation charge ( £50) (4 week course)

*Concessions are available for over 60's and the unwaged. Concession price is 50% of full cost.