A 'VITAL' resource hub for parents and carers in North Somerset has opened in Weston.

The newly opened centre, on Drove Road, will be used to support children with special educational needs (SEND) and offer support and advice for families, alongside help from local support services in the community. 

On September 8, Weston's mayor Cllr Sonia Russe met with representatives from North Somerset Council to officially open the North Somerset Parents and Carers Working Together (NSPCWT) hub at The Firs.

CEO of NSPCWT, Kenton Mee, said he was 'thrilled' to see the hub open.

He said: "This Hub will help us further develop our support, signposting and training offer for parent carers of children and young people with additional needs or disabilities.

"As the strategic partner of our council representing parent carers views, we aim to create positive change within provisions and services, whilst empowering families to support their young people.

"The creation of this hub is a significant step in increasing the support we are able to offer locally to the parent carer community."

The Firs has been provided for NSPCWT use by North Somerset Council.

Weston mayor Cllr Sonia Russe has also chosen NSPCWT as the town council's official charitable organsiation for the year.

Cllr Russe said: "When I first learned of the amazing support NSPCWT offer families with challenges in everyday life, and in education, I knew this was the group I so wanted to support.

"Every child and young person should have the best possible chance to reach their full potential."

North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for children’s services, Cllr Catherine Gibbons, added: "I'm delighted the council was able to provide this building to the parent carers forum.

"The hub they have created is a fantastic facility for children, young people, their carers and families.

"Although this is the ’official’ opening, the centre is already up-and-running and I've been fortunate to visit and see the impressive work happening there.

"I'm committed to supporting NSPCWT personally, as well as in my council role, and look forward to continuing our working together to do our best for every child and young person."

To find out more on the work of the parent carers charity, or to access its resources, visit www.nspcwt.org/.