"Every Family Matters": Rutland Parents Asked to reply to Consultation Survey Local Family Hub Services
By Local Democracy Reporter
Rutland County Council has issued a call-to-action to parents and carers across the county, asking them to help "shape the future" of the Rutland Family Hub.
The council is seeking views from everyone whether they are regular faces at the Catmos Street hub in Oakham, or families who have never stepped through the door. The goal is to ensure that the services provided meet the actual needs of modern families in Britain’s smallest county.
The Rutland Family Hub is designed as a "one-stop shop" for families with children aged 0 to 19 (or up to 25 for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). It brings together health, education, and social care services under one roof—and via outreach across the county to provide a seamless support network.
Currently, the hub offers:
Sessions like 'Mini Explorers' and 'The Social Child'.
Access to health visitors, breastfeeding support, and mental health guidance.
Courses on behavior, relationships, and "Best Start for Life" initiatives.
Support for military families and those with SEND.
Why the Survey Now?
As the council moves further into its 2026 budget cycle, there is a renewed focus on making services more accessible. The council wants to know if the current "hub and spoke" model which includes the main site in Oakham and outreach in Uppingham and Kendrew Barracks is actually reaching the people who need it most.
"We aim to give children and families what they need. So, we change our sessions sometimes," a spokesperson said. "Your feedback tells us if we're getting the balance right or if there are gaps we haven't seen yet."
The council has promised that the survey results won't just sit on a shelf. Following a previous consultation on nursery provision, the authority adopted a "You Said, We Did" approach, leading to tangible changes in how travel budgets and specialist sessions were handled.
Officials are now hoping for a similar level of engagement to decide which groups should run in 2026, what times sessions should be held, and whether more digital or virtual services are required for rural families.
How to Take Part
The survey is open to all parents, carers, and even young people who use the services.
For those who prefer to speak to someone directly or need help accessing the survey, the Family Hub team can be reached at 01572 758 383 or via email at familyhub@rutland.gov.uk.
