The Early Help Offer

The Early Help Offer is an approach not a service

Early Help is the identification of, and response to, emerging problems for children, young people and their families. It is a way of working that supports families, children and young people to overcome difficulties and build their resilience so that problems do not escalate. Supporting children and families to thrive, live and engage happily in their communities.


Effective delivery of Early Help is based on a clear understanding of local needs and appreciation of local conditions influencing the lives of children, young people and their families. Schools and locally based professionals contribute to the development of a rich local Early Help offer; working across domains of health, education, community safety and the voluntary sector.


The Early Help Offer is available to address issues or concerns that arise at any point in a child or young person's life. It includes both universal and targeted /specialist services, to reduce or prevent concerns from growing or becoming entrenched.