A local charity which supports children, families, and parents has called for increased government support to support early intervention measures for young people.
Brighter Futures Jersey held a conference this week at The Royal Yacht hotel, giving speakers a platform to highlight the importance of early intervention, alongside shared personal experiences.
Speakers included its patron Lady Kyd, 1,001 Critical Days Foundation chief executive Will Quince, practitioner Tara Gretton, The Royal Foundation executive director Christian Guy, police chief Robin Smith, and business and charity leader Kevin Keen.
Speakers explored themes surrounding the first 1001 critical days of a child’s life, emphasising that early intervention is a proven, preventative approach that supports families before difficulties reach crisis point.
Discussions also highlighted the long-term social and economic costs of failing to invest in early support, as well as the value of “small, manageable changes in improving family wellbeing”.
Brighter Futures chief executive Fiona Brennan also used the conference to call for more sustainable financial support from the government.
The charity, which has an annual running cost of more than £1 million, currently receives just 8.7% of its funding from the government.
Around 150 to 160 families receive support from the charity each week. This includes one-to-one support, alongside courses and programmes to ensure the child’s carer is their primary carer and educator.
Mrs Brennan said: “Early intervention is not only effective for families but also represents a long-term investment in our community.
“With sustainable funding, we can plan ahead, reach more families and make a greater impact.”