East Belfast Sure Start

The aims of Sure Start are to improve:-

• the ability to learn by encouraging stimulating play, improving language skills and the early identification and support of children with learning difficulties;
• health by supporting parents in caring for children and promoting children's health and development;
• social development by supporting the development of early relationships between parents and children, good parenting skills, family functioning and early identification and support of children with emotional learning or behavioural difficulties.

The key principles of Sure Start are to:-

• co-ordinate, streamline and add value to existing services for young families in local communities, including signposting to specialised services;
• involve parents;
• avoid stigma;
• ensure lasting support;
• be sensitive to particular families' needs;
• promote participation of all local families.