Parents and carers across the region can now access NHS-backed online learning programme Togetherness, for free.
Starting this week, parents and carers across West Berkshire can access free online parenting support that offers practical help to understand and respond to children’s needs.
Photo by Daniel Thomas / Unsplash
Anyone living in the region can now create a free account on the Togetherness site by using access code BWFAMILIES.
Backed by the NHS, Togetherness offers an online learning programme designed to support everyday parenting. It offers short, self‑guided online pathways that families can complete at their own pace. The topics include understanding children’s feelings and brain development, managing behaviour, sleep and routines, building positive relationships, and supporting teenagers through change.
Togetherness is based on the well-established ‘Solihull approach’ developed by clinical psychologists and psychotherapists in 1996 (in Solihull, hence the name). This approach focuses on emotional health in relationships. The aim is to support children’s emotional well-being and long‑term development by strengthening the confidence of parents and carers, and by bolstering family relationships.
In this, the programme recognises the challenges parents face and focuses on practical insight rather than telling families what to do.
What’s more, Togetherness includes lessons for anyone who works with children and young people, including those in education, health and community settings.
Cllr Patrick Clark, Executive Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Public Health at West Berkshire Council, says: ‘Supporting parents and carers raising children is a vital role for the council, which improves the lives of those children and families. This NHS‑led resource offers accessible, evidence‑based learning to help families build stronger relationships, preventing issues from escalating.’
Cllr Heather Codling, Executive Portfolio Holder for Children and Family Services, adds: ‘Parenting does not come with a handbook, and many families experience moments where they need reassurance or practical guidance. Togetherness gives parents and carers free, trusted support they can access in their own time, helping them better understand their children and feel more confident in everyday family life.’
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