Coping with family pressures

All of these issues can put increasing pressure on families, making it difficult to cope, which can cause mental health issues and other problems. We have compiled these sources of support and guidance to help West Sussex families cope.  

West Sussex Connect to Support

Connect to Support is the county’s one-stop-shop online directory of care and support for advice and information such as mental health and wellbeing resources specifically related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and self-isolation, and where to find support if you’re unable to look after your pets. The website also provides listings for community groups and services across West Sussex Connect to Support.

Local offer

The West Sussex Local Offer helps you find information about local services, support and events for children and young people aged 0 - 25 years who have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND). You can also find childcare via the West Sussex Family Information Services website.

Domestic abuse 

Domestic abuse services in West Sussex, including refuge, are available and mainly provided via telephone, email and online. Face to face support is currently unavailable due to national measures introduced. You can view further details here.

Early help 

Early help means ‘identifying as early as possible if a child or family need support and helping them to access services, working together to ensure that this has maximum impact. Visit the West Sussex Children's Safeguarding  webpage. 

Family Assist Service 

The Family Assist service for families with children aged 0–19 years (or up to 25 for young adults with learning difficulties and/or disabilities). Visit the  Family Assist webpage. 

Buy with Confidence 

Buy With Confidence is the only nationally available business approval scheme that’s 100% owned, controlled and operated by independent public sector bodies. Using a Buy with Confidence approved member is the best way to ensure a legal, honest and fair service if you need work doing around your home. Buy With Confidence 

Support with debt or job loss

If you need some practice support with debt or job loss advice, managing your money in general you can visit the West Sussex Citizen Advice website or you can call 0344 477 1171.

Care Wise

Care Wise provides expert information and advice on paying for care. To find out more visit the webpage.

NSPCC Support for Parents 

Parenting can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. The NSPCC Support for Parents webpage provides parenting tips for all stages of your child’s life, as well as advice on how to deal with difficult situations. 

Support for carers

Many people have become carers for older, disabled or seriously ill friends and relatives as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, and are juggling new intense caring responsibilities with work and other life challenges.

If you support someone who couldn't manage without your help, then you are one of the 89,000 carers living in West Sussex.

To see what support may be available to you visit Carers Support West Sussex or call them on 0300 028 8888. They will also be able to offer you a carers assessment, which may help with some practical/financial issues you may be experiences.