Some organisations and registered charities provide independent advice, information and support to families whose children are involved with Social Services. Support is also available where a parent or carer has worries about a child or parenting issues and would like to talk things through.

The following organisations provide a range of services for mothers, fathers, grandparents, step-parents, foster parents and other carers. Services include helplines, information and support.

Kirklees Advice Network. It provides legal information for all residents of Kirklees. You can get advice on legal aid, going to court and family mediation.

Citizen’s Advice Bureaux can help with problems including debt, consumer issues, benefits, housing, legal matters, employment and immigration. There are local offices in Huddersfield 01484 226249, Batley 01924 326066, and Dewsbury 01924 324252.

CAFCASS. The site provides questions and answers for parents and children. Cafcass looks after the interests of children involved in family court proceedings. Officers work with children and their families, and then advise the courts on what is considered to be in the child's best interests.

Examples of matters that may be taken to family courts include:

• when parents who are separating or divorcing can't agree on arrangements for their children,

• an adoption application,

• or when children are subject to an application for care or supervision proceedings by social services.

Family Rights Group.
Free confidential advice service for families whose children are involved with social services. Tel: 0800 731 1696.

Children’s Legal Centre.
A free, confidential legal advice and information service covering all aspects of the law affecting children and young people. The service is open to children, young people and anyone with concerns about them. You can call them on 01206 873820.

Families Need Fathers (FNF).
It explains different aspects of the law and links to a range of advice and legal groups.

NSPCC
has a free phone with a 24 hour helpline on 0808 800 5000.

For further details on any of the information highlighted on this web page please contact your local Gateway to Care direct or complete a Gateway to Care enquiry form. Our staff will be more than happy to help!