FREE INFORMATION ON ALL TYPES OF CHILDCARE AND LOCAL SERVICES THAT SUPPORT FAMILIES IN SANDWELL – CALL 0121 569 4914 OR CLICK HERE TO VISIT THEIR WEBSITE
The Family Information Service (FIS) is a dedicated service within Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council. They provide free, confidential, and impartial advice and guidance on all aspects of childcare and related services in Sandwell to parents/carers with babies and children aged from birth until 19 years old.
This means not only can you obtain information on childcare providers, you can also seek information and advice on a wide range of services that may support you and your family.
THEY CAN PROVIDE INFORMATION ON:
CHILDCARE
There are so many different types of childcare providers and entrusting your child with a stranger is a big step. They can give you information on all the types of childcare available includingRegistered Childminders, Day Nurseries, Pre School Playgroups, After School Clubs, Breakfast Clubs, School Holiday Clubs and Creches. They can also give you information about their opening times, costs, services provided etc.
LOCAL SERVICES
They can provide you with information on a wide range of family services and activities that are available locally in Sandwell and also regional and national services.
HELP WITH CHILDCARE COSTS
Childcare can be expensive, but help may be available depending on your circumstances. They can provide you with information about the type of help that may be available to you including tax credits, childcare vouchers, and Free Early Learning and Childcare (Nursery Education) etc.
CHILDREN’S CENTRES
They can provide you with information on your local Sandwell Children’s Centres. Children’s Centres provide a base in the community to deliver activities and help boost options for children in their early years (0-5 years). The aim of the Children’s Centres is to ensure that every child gets the best start in life.
CHILDCARE PROVIDERS/WORKING IN CHILDCARE
They can provide you with information about how Sandwell Quality Early Years and Childcare Service can offer you advice, help and support, whether you are thinking about a career working with children, just starting out as a childcare provider, or you have been a childcare provider for a number of years.
CHILDCARE BROKERAGE SERVICE
Parents/Carers may sometimes have difficulty in finding the childcare option which is right for them. If you are having trouble finding a service to meet your needs the Family Information Service is able to offer a brokerage service to support you.
THE FIS CAN
- Take you through all the information available
- Help you think about widening your choice and location of childcare
- Tell you about childcare costs and free childcare available
- Speak to childcare providers on your behalf and introduce you to them
SANDWELL CHILDREN AND YOUNG ADULTS DISABILITY AND SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTER
This register is parent led; it is your choice whether or not to have your child’s/young adult’s (0-25 years) details included on the register. If you choose to register we will be able to provide you with information, including information on activities and events which your child/young person may be able to attend.