A pioneering programme to help support families in Stoke-on-Trent is now supporting 1,339 children and transforming the lives of many more.
Family Matters is a partnership between the council, the NHS and the voluntary and community sector. It focuses on stepping in early – before problems reach crisis point – to make sure children have the best start in life.
It provides a full package of support through Family Hubs and targeted early intervention to help families stay safely together.
As a result, the programme has been recognised at the Alice Charity Hands of Hope awards as a finalist in the Power of Partnership category.
The award recognises large organisations that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the voluntary sector through meaningful collaboration.
Direct work with families in 2025 through the programme’s partners in the voluntary sector through the Family Coordinator service support to 562 families and 1339 children.
Family Matters runs across several key areas including:
- Family Hubs – the programme runs in and out of the city council’s expanding network of Family Hubs. New hubs have recently been opened in Chell Heath and Abbey Hulton.
- Citywide play – offers play opportunities for all children in the city such as the new play areas at Hanley and Longton Markets.
- Youth provision – the Youth Transformation Fund is providing accessible, high quality youth provision across the city.
- Adult learning and employment – the programme is delivering adult learning through Family Learning Matters and developing opportunities for adults to expand their skills and gain employment, benefitting their families as well as promoting children’s learning
- Mental health and wellbeing – a pilot mental health programme is now up and running in nine schools. Students are supported through regular drop-in sessions as well as a full-time member of staff for emotional support.
- Anti-poverty – the programme is helping to reduce the impact of the cost of living on families in the city. Anyone who needs support can visit www.stoke.gov.uk/helpisathand
Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: “Family Matters is a brilliant example of this city looking after its own and providing a vital safety net when people stumble in life.
“Reaching the finals of these awards is recognition of the efforts of all partners in the programme.
“Everyone has worked together to make families lives in Stoke on Trent the best they can be. This is a real city partnership, and the voluntary and community sector have stepped up brilliantly to help deliver what we all want - a stable, secure, future for all our children.”
The Alice Charity Awards 2026 will take place on Wednesday 25 February 2026.
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