Hello, my name is Sarah and I am the Parent Support Advisor, Mental Health Lead and Young Carers Lead at St Mary's Catholic Primary School.
With over 15 years of experience supporting children, young people and families, I am passionate about helping every child feel safe, supported and able to thrive. I work closely with families, school staff and a range of local services to ensure children receive the right support at the right time.
My role is to provide a friendly, confidential and non-judgemental service for parents and carers. Whether you need practical advice, emotional support, help accessing services, or simply someone to listen, I am here to help.
I act as a link between home and school, helping to ensure that everyone working with your child has the information, understanding and support needed to help them succeed. By working together, we can build a joined-up approach that puts your child at the centre of the support they receive.
How I can help
I can support families with:
- Emotional wellbeing and mental health
- Attendance and school routines
- Family and relationship difficulties
- Financial worries
- Food, clothing and uniform support
- Bereavement and loss
- Parenting support
- Early Help assessments and support plans
- Young Carers support
- Signposting to specialist services and community organisations
I have strong links with a range of local services, including the Emotional Resilience Team (ERT), Piece of Mind, DurhamLearn, Young Carers, Early Help Services, health professionals and community support organisations, helping families access the support they need as quickly as possible.
We also work closely with local charities, including Lifeline Community Action and The Angel Trust, who provide valuable support to families through services such as food provision, household essentials, wellbeing support and community projects.
Every family faces challenges from time to time. My role is to listen, support and help find solutions. Whether you need advice, practical help, emotional support or someone to advocate on your behalf, I am here to help. Together, we can ensure that all the adults involved in your child's life are working together to help them feel safe, supported and able to thrive.
Appointments can be arranged through the school office, and all conversations are treated with sensitivity, dignity and respect.
My door is always open, and no concern is ever too small. We are here to support every family in our St Mary's community. 💙