Cost of living support: your crisis, our action

We want to make sure that children and young people in our borough get the best start in life and are able to fulfil their potential no matter the circumstances. There’s plenty of support available to you, including: 

• Early Help free drop-in sessions – you can access friendly, in-person support at children and family hubs across the borough. Drop by any time from 9.45 am to 11.15 am, to receive information about local services, support for parents, community activities and help to use online services in an informal space. The sessions take place at: 

Leyton Children and Family Centre Hub (Tuesdays), 215 Queens Road, E17 8PJ 

Chingford Children and Family Centre Hub (Wednesdays), 5 Oaks Grove, E4 6EY 

Walthamstow Children and Family Centre Hub (Thursdays), 313 Billet Road, E17 5PX 

Leytonstone Children and Family Centre Hub (Fridays), 2-8 Cathall Road, E11 4LF  

If you have any queries, you can contact the Early Help Service at earlyhelp@walthamforest.gov.uk. 

• Family Hubs – pay your local Family Hub a visit, where you’ll be able to access advice and information to support your child’s growth and development. Register for a visit online or in person at your nearest Family Hub centre. 

• Best Start in Life newsletter – sign up to our newsletter and get events, information and advice straight through to your inbox. Make sure you check the ‘Best Start in Life E-newsletter Parents and Carers’ tickbox under the ‘Education: Schools and Colleges’ heading. 

• The Healthy Start scheme – if you are pregnant, a new parent, or have a child under four, you may be eligible for a Healthy Start card, to help you purchase free, healthy foods. You can find out more about who qualifies for the Healthy Start Card, and make an application for a card if you qualify. 

• Free School Meals – you can find out if your child is eligible for free school meals, and apply online.