Over 100 locals attend milestone Family Hub events in Walsall

Over 100 local people and their families attended the first of Walsall’s Family Hub anniversary events on Saturday 20 July 2024, to enjoy a day out, and celebrate the Hubs and what they do.

Events are taking place at all four of the council’s Family Hubs during July and August, to mark one year since they first launched. 

The first of the celebration events was held at the central and south Family Hub, and families were treated to a variety of engaging activities, including storytelling sessions, a teddy bears picnic, Henna tattoos, face painting, outdoor treasure hunts, arts and crafts, stay and play games, and even some messy fun. 

And the excitement didn't stop there! Thanks to Arts Connect West Midlands and the National Literacy Trust, children who attended also received free craft gift boxes and walk and talk cards.

The event also brought together organisations who work in partnership with the Hubs all-year round, such as the NHS, Walsall Works, and West Midlands Police. Other support services came along too, such as speech and language therapists. 

Even the Manchester Monument Bee made a special appearance, which has recently toured schools in the borough as part of an anti-violence campaign with West Midlands Police. 

Councillor Stacie Elson, Portfolio Holder for Children's Services at Walsall Council, said, "I am really proud of the Family Hubs team for everything they have achieved in their first year, alongside our partners and volunteers.

“The four Hubs are located in the heart of our communities and have been set up to provide direct support to families, acting as a one-stop shop of universal support. Since they launched last year, the Hubs have supported over 500 people, which includes parents/carers and children and young people. 

“Seeing children, young people and their families come along to the event on Saturday was great, seeing them have fun is really what this is all about, to build happy and healthy family communities in the borough.

“This is just the first of our four celebration events, so please do get down to our others in July and August and enjoy time with your family. All the events are completely free, and no booking is required.” 

Parents who attended the day echoed Councillor Elson’s enthusiasm. One of the parents who attended said, "It was the best day ever with lots of activities for the kids. There were really friendly staff. My children are so happy. We want more of these events in the future." 

More dates for the next Family Hubs events include:  

• Thursday 1 August 2024, 10am-2pm: Brownhills Community Centre, Chester Road North, Brownhills, WS8 7JS and Hollands Park. 

• Wednesday 14 August 2024, 11am-2pm: North Family Hub, 275 Blakenall Lane, Blakenall, Walsall WS3 1HJ.  

• Thursday 29 August 2024, 10am-2pm: West Family Hub, Ilmington House, Crescent Road, WS10 8AE.