"This is not about rebranding existing services, but about reimagining how support is delivered"

Following recent news about increased government funding for family hubs, we wrote to the Observer to highlight the work we have done and the importance of community.

You can read the full letter we submitted below and scroll down to see the printed version:

Dear Editor,

Your recent article (Labour plans to fund 400 more one-stop family hubs, 6 July) was right to applaud the Government’s commitment to rolling out Family Hubs across every council in England. As highlighted by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, these hubs truly have the potential to be a “lifeline” for families, especially when designed and delivered with care, collaboration, and community at their core.

At Spurgeons, we have long championed the Family Hub model, delivering services that support families from pregnancy through to young adulthood (0–19, and up to 25 for those with SEND). Our experience shows that when families can access a network of joined-up services they are better equipped to overcome challenges and thrive.

This is not about rebranding existing services, but about reimagining how support is delivered: integrated, accessible, and responsive to local needs. In the past year we have reached over 30,000 individuals, with more than 90% of families at our Wiltshire Family Hub reporting improvements in key areas such as children’s health, behaviour, and learning.

We welcome the Government’s investment and look forward to working with local authorities and partners to ensure these hubs deliver on their promise, providing every child with the best possible start in life.

Sincerely,

Ian Soars
Chief Executive, Spurgeons