Case Study: Elizabeth Fry Family Centre

Awarded �20,655 over three years in 1995

We awarded the grant to support families experiencing difficulties. Parents took part in a varied educational programme, which included confidence building, health education, child development and literacy and numeracy courses. Families were encouraged to use the group's nursery more, and family outings and holiday activities are regularly organised.

Monitoring identified good attendance by families. Fathers regularly attended the centre's nursery. In year two of the grant, 10 mothers received certificates for completing an assertiveness course, and two enrolled on further education courses. The children's development was monitored and improvements noted. Good feedback was received from parents, health visitors and social workers. The waiting list to attend the centre increased.

Sixty-five people benefited from the project: 30 children under five; eight children between five and 12; 12 young people, 13 - 25; and 15 adults.

"I like coming here because I can learn how to cope with my kids better. It's done a lot for me." - (Parent)

"The grant helped us support families with low incomes, health and housing problems�The difference is noticed by staff and volunteers, referring agencies and parents themselves. Some of the changes can be quite startling - a little girl too timid to speak is shouting a few months later." - (Jean Ward, Chair)