The Family Matters Hubs were developed by social enterprise Indigo Childcare Group in response to the increasing numbers of families it was working with in the Castlemilk area of Glasgow who were experiencing in-work poverty. Using data gathered from families, the group was able to secure funding to employ a dedicated family support co-ordinator (FSC) in 2021.
The FSC has supported more than 90 families this year alone and provided them with tailored, family-centred support which includes free and subsidised childcare places, income maximisation advice and signposting to practical support such as food and utilities vouchers.
Family Matters found that 71 per cent of families they surveyed were afraid to turn on heating. In response, it secured funding to deliver hub events allowing families to access warm spaces, healthy hot meals and essential food and toiletries. Families also received warm bundles that included thermal blankets and hot water bottles and a household item such as a dehumidifier, air fryer or slow cooker.
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