WHARFE Valley Family Links have launched their Nurturing Programme in the local community.

Aimed at adults, this free programme consists of 10 weekly workshops which are designed to enhance parents’ and carers’ wellbeing and help them find ways of navigating the aspects of family life that they may find the most challenging.

The Family Links Nurturing Programme on Friday mornings at Burley Oaks Primary School in Burley-in-Wharfedale has proved incredibly popular and has helped over a 100 families since it was launched in 2016, but some have been unable to access it due to other commitments. The Wharfe Valley Family Links Nurturing Programme is fully funded and backed by Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership, enabling Wharfe Valley Family Links to train additional facilitators and run multiple workshops to benefit the community across different venues.

George Walker, Family Links Facilitator at Burley Oaks Primary School and Wharfe Valley Family Links Assistant Project Lead said: “As a Facilitator at Burley Oaks Primary School, I cannot recommend this programme enough: it really does change family cycles and home life for the better. Not only do our attendees find out lots about themselves and what an amazing job they are already doing, they gain effective tips and support to enhance family life and relationships. The groups become friends and often continue supporting each other within the community long after the course. We always have high emotions when a group comes to an end - it really is a nurturing place to be."

Recent alumni from the Family Links course gave the following feedback: "Life throws curveballs all the time: the Family Links Nurturing Programme just helps you find your bounce! I don't really know what I was expecting of the programme when I started it, but I just figured it couldn't do any harm. All I can say is my family have well and truly found our bounce. I'm so glad I went for it!"

Further testimonials include: "The Family Links Nurturing Programme is the least judgey place on the planet! I was nervous thinking that everyone there would assume I was a bad parent... Turns out I was just in a room with a load of people who just wanted to enjoy family life more and feel perkier, safe and supported. There was no pressure, and no drama - just an opportunity to let yourself really step back and grow."

The Wharfe Valley Family Links Nurturing Programme kicks off with an introduction session on Thursday, April 20th 6:30pm-8:30pm at St. Mary's Parish Centre, Burley in Wharfedale, LS29 7JL. This ‘week zero’ session will allow those interested to meet the facilitators and find out more about the programme in an informal, relaxed environment.

The Nurturing Programme is free to attend, however limited spaces are available. Contact WharfeValleyFamilyLinks@outlook.com if you are interested in finding out more about the programme and what it can do for your well-being, family relationships and personal power.

Further information is also available on Facebook by searching ‘Wharfe Valley Family Links’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/591856612794304