Education and Children's Services
Children and Families
Most families experience difficulties and stress at some point in their lives. For some, help and support given at the right time can make all the difference. We provide a range of services to support children, young people and their families.
The Children and Families Team for Lewis and Harris is based in the Council Offices, Sandwick Road, Stornoway.
The Children and Families Team for Uist and Barra is based in the Council Offices, Balivanich, Benbecula.
Some of the services provided include:
- Teams provide a service to the Children Hearing System. They provide a service to vulnerable children and their families. Staff also offer a preventative service and crisis support to children and families.
- The Family Placement Team offers respite care, fostering and adoption services throughout the Western isles. This service offers assessment for potential carers and adopters and ongoing support for approved Foster Parents and in certain circumstances, adoptive carers. If you would like a leaflet on 'How to Become a Foster Carer', please contact the Team on 01851 822742.
- The Children and Families Team is responsible for Child Protection enquiries and investigation and follow up involvement as required. All the Social Workers within the Children and Families Team work together with other professionals to protect children who are or may be at risk of harm.
If a member of the public has concerns about a child’s safety, contact should be made with Children’s Services on 01851 822749 during office hours (9.00am – 5.00pm) or, outwith office hours, FAIRE on 01851 701702 or Stornoway Police Station on 01851 702222. Concerns can also be reported anonymously to CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111.
Anyone wishing further information or initial advice and assistance can contact Children’s Services at the Council Offices and speak to the Duty Social Worker at any time between 9.00am and 5.00pm, Monday to Friday. Guidance and assistance can be sought either in person or by phone. No appointment is necessary.
