Sheffield Children’s Centre is introducng new services this month

A Sheffield children's centre that supports some of the city's most vulnerable families is set to unveil a range of new services at a special community event later this month.

The team at Sheffield Children's Centre on Shoreham Street will officially open its new social café, food bank, outdoor learning space and expanded special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision on June 22.

The event will bring together staff and local businesses which have helped fund and support the developments.

Terasa D'Aquila from Sheffield Children's Centre said the organisation was proud to continue expanding its support for families across the city.

She said: "We are passionate about supporting Sheffield families and ensuring children receive the help they need to thrive. We are looking forward to welcoming families, partners and local businesses to celebrate these exciting new developments."

The centre, which has been serving Sheffield families for more than 40 years, says demand for its services has risen sharply in recent months, with applications doubling since September.

As a result, it has opened a brand-new early years room and expanded its alternative provision for school-age children who are unable to access a mainstream school placement that meets their needs.

The centre also supports children with complex healthcare needs and accepts referrals from parents, local authorities and multidisciplinary teams.

The latest developments build on a series of recent achievements for the centre.

Its Early Years Department was recently awarded an "Outstanding" rating in all areas by Ofsted, while its Post-16 Education Department achieved Flagship Centre Status in recognition of its apprenticeships and specialist courses in childcare, teaching and special educational needs.

The centre has also been awarded Millie's Mark, a nationally recognised accreditation for excellence in paediatric first aid.

Sheffield Children's Centre is one of only three settings in Sheffield to hold the award.

Demand has also increased at its Family Contact Centre, which provides a safe environment for children to maintain contact with parents or family members when arrangements require supervision or support.

Two additional contact rooms have recently been opened to meet growing demand.

The community celebration and official opening event will take place at Sheffield Children's Centre, Shoreham Street, on Sunday, June 22.