City Family CIC is expanding its work with children, young people and families across Southend, launching a series of new programmes designed to boost confidence, social connection and civic pride.

Working with children aged 8–16, the new offer combines after-school, holiday and wellbeing support to help young people build resilience, strengthen relationships and feel more connected to their community.

Two new initiatives — Next Gen and Family Social Prescribing — will form the heart of the expansion.

• Next Gen will deliver creative afterschool and holiday groups for children in Years 5 and 6, helping them develop confidence, teamwork and a sense of belonging as they prepare for secondary school.
• Family Social Prescribing will support children and young people aged 10–16 who may need extra help to re-engage with education, through one-to-one guidance and tailored family support.

Together, these programmes reflect City Family’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for all children to thrive — and directly support the ambitions of the Southend 2050 City Vision, in particular its priorities: Safe and Thriving Communities and Haven for Leisure and Creativity

Delivered in partnership with local schools, the Southend School Nursing Team and Education Access team, Essex Fire and Rescue Service, and community organisations, the programmes will also create new pathways for early help — offering practical, non-clinical support before challenges escalate.

The programmes have been funded by The Community Investment Board and South East Essex Alliance Health Inequalities Fund

For more information please contact yfsouthend@cityfamily.org.uk