Who are we?
The Cardiff Parent Network is hosted by Action for Children with the aim of involving parents and carers (who are bringing up a child or young person aged 0-25 years old in Cardiff) and encourage greater awareness of the role and benefit of parent participation. Members are;
- Mums, Dads and Step-parents
- Grandparents and 'kinship' carers
- Foster carers and adoptive parents
- Interest and support group
- Professionals and service providers
Parent participation has been recognised as part of the Welsh Assembly Government Parenting Action Plan stating that parents, and other people bringing up children, should have a say in how services are planned.
We believe that it is important to make time to listen and talk directly with parents, as they know what is needed. We spoke to over 400 parents to find out their views on services for children and families in Cardiff. At the time this formed part of the 'Family Support Strategy' and highlighted the need for a 'Parents Network'. We began meeting with a group of parents in September 2007 who then worked with us to develop the Network which was subsequently launched in 2008. Since this time the Network has grown from strength to strength.
Information
As a member, you can receive information from us, either by post, via a bi-annual newsletter or the website which welcomes your ideas and comments. We also have an e-mail address - info@cardiffparentnetwork.co.uk and we hold regular half termly meetings.
"Being part of the Cardiff Parent Network has already given me numerous opportunities to have say on important issues and has helped to increase my confidence on dealing with other things in life. To have someone to support me when I attend meetings and training is also a huge boost as although I seem confident I do find them overwhelming."
Carys, Parent Network Member
What we provide
Regular meetings for parents to come together.
Be part of planning and organising the Parent Network – where everyone is encouraged to have their say.
Talk about issues relevant to being a parent in Cardiff.
Find out about and comment on new plans affecting children and families.
Support to Give Your Views
Supporting you to be part of local planning groups and events that help shape services and polices for children, young people and families.
Training for parents to participate in meetings and be parent representatives.
Practical help to enable parents to take part such as child care, transport expenses.
Working together to put parents views in to action.
