Children and FamiliesTeam

Most families experience difficulties and stress at some point in their lives. For some, help and support given at the right time can make all the difference. We provide a range of ervices to support children, young people and their families.

The Children and Families Team for Lewis and Harris is based in the Council Offices, Sandwick Road, Stornoway.

The Children and Families Team for Uist and Barrais based in the Council Offices, Balivanich, Benbecula.

Some of the services provided include:

• Teams provide service to the Children Hearing System. They provide a service to vulnerable children and their families. Staff also offer a preventative service and crisis support to children and families.
• The Children and Families Team offers respite care, fostering and adoption services throughout the Western isles. This service offers assessment for potential carers and adopters and ongoing support for approved Foster Parents and in certain circumstances, adoptive carers. How to Become a Foster Carer
• The Children and Families Team is responsible for Child Protection enquiries and investigation and follow up involvement as required. All the Social Workers within the Children and Families Team work together with other professionals to protect children who are or may be at risk of harm.

If any member of the public has any concerns about a child's safety contact should be made with the Social Work Department on 01851 709336 within office hours and out of hours, FAIRE on 01851 701702 or Stornoway Police Station on 01851 702222 or concerns can be reported anonymously to CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111.

Anyone wishing further information or initial advice and assistance can contact the Social Work Department Council Offices and speak to the Duty Social Worker between 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday where a worker is available to give advice and assistance either in person or by telephone. No appointment is necessary.