Connections for Families CIC ambition is to support ASN parents with wellbeing groups, peer mentoring & practical workshops—strengthening whole-family resilience & community spirit.
Project Description
We are launching Connections for Families CIC to better support whole families raising children and young people with Additional Support Needs (ASN). Before we begin, we want to listen. This pilot project will run a welcoming community event where parents, carers, siblings, and wider networks can come together, hear our plans, and have their say.
This event will create a safe and inclusive space for families to share what matters most to them. We will introduce our new whole-family approach, which focuses on strengthening resilience, reducing isolation, and improving wellbeing. Families will help shape what services and activities should look like—whether that’s peer support, practical workshops, advocacy, or family activities.
The pilot will also build community spirit by connecting families who often feel isolated, offering an opportunity to meet others with similar experiences. With refreshments, child-friendly spaces, and trained facilitators and childcare support, the sessions will be accessible and supportive.
By piloting CCF, we will gather real feedback, test what works, and ensure the future of Connections for Families CIC is led by families themselves. This grant will allow us to make sure our new service is truly community-designed.
Costs
Days events and preperation
Room Hire: 1 room for 6 hrs = £120
Marketing Materials: £50
Hospitality: Based on 30 attendees @ £8 per head £240
Childcare: 2 specialist workers to supervise children £198
Materials and Equipment for the event: £190 ie, hand outs, flare and books
Event Staff and prep time: £200
Total: £998
Location: 3. Local ASN figures have seen a significant rise in diagnoses for children and young people year on year. Across North Ayrshire, pupils with ASN miss notably more school, with a clear link to both poverty and under-resourced support which magnifies inequality. The combination of these issues means families raising ASN children here are significantly disadvantaged across NA. CFF feels that a more holistic family approach is required, supporting parents strengthens the heart of the family.
Proposed on behalf of: 4. Connections for Families previously known as Ayrshire Childrens Services CIC works, the rational for the name change and direction of the organisation is in the document attached 'Rational' in partnership with KO-NEKT childcare who will support the ASN child and CCF will work with siblings and parents.
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