At Fordcombe, we recognise that at times everyone needs some extra support so that they can “be a light”; “shine their light”; and “share their light”. Our Home School Link Worker is part of our Pastoral Support Team and a trained Mental Health Lead; offering support, advice, and a listening ear to students’ and their families in times of need. We have links to outside agencies and charities who may just have the answer you’ve been looking for, even if we don’t ourselves. Don’t feel alone or uncertain. Definitely come and have a conversation. Emma McBride is in school on Wednesdays and Thursdays. You can contact her via email (emcbride@fordcombe.kent.sch.uk) to ask a question or make an appointment.

What concerns can I help with?

 Families dealing with a wide range of issues such as:

• Families who are experiencing change such as transition, parental separation or bereavement
• Parents having difficulty managing their child’s behaviour
• Attendance and punctuality
• Home-School relationship
• Lack of confidence and low self-esteem
• Families needing support with issues impacting on family life eg; illness.

I can help by providing:

• One to one support and advice
• Awareness of other agencies and support services/sign posting
• Information on support groups for parents/carers
• Guidance on promoting positive behaviour
• A flexible and open minded approach.

Here are just some of the organisations we have worked with or referred on to:

• Kent Family Hub
• Early Help
• Nourish
• School Nursing Service
• Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services
• Spurgeons
• Kent Educational Psychology Department
• Community Paediatrics
• Family Fund
• Children’s Therapy Services
• Jigsaw South East Children’s Bereavement Charity