Christmas Edition Family Support Newsletter

The Christmas edition of the Family Support Hub Newsletter is now available at  https://cypsp.hscni.net/download/391/family-support-hubs/47245/fsh-newsletter-dec2025.pdf  

(Please Note: Newsletter will download directly to your device.  Look out for the pop-up box and click on open file when it appears).

As we approach the festive season, this edition is filled with events, activities, and services designed to support families across our region during what can be both a joyful and challenging time of year. Whether you are a parent, carer, or professional working with families, we hope you find something helpful and uplifting within these pages.

This newsletter is a celebration of the incredible work happening in our communities and the commitment of everyone involved in supporting families. It’s also a reminder that help is always available, no one should feel alone during the holidays.

It is also packed full of information for parents/carers, early years, children & young people with a disability,  mental health and wellbeing advice,  Helplines and much more – make sure you download your copy now!

Previous editions of the newsletter are available at  http://www.cypsp.hscni.net/family-support-hubs  under Family Support Newsletter section.

Regards,

Children’s Services Team

 

Children & Young People’s Resource Pack – Christmas Edition

Cover page of the Children and Young People’s Resource Pack – Christmas Edition, December 2025. The design features festive illustrations including snowmen, Christmas trees, bells, holly, and gifts around the border. The CYPSP logo is at the top, followed by the title ‘Children & Young People’s Resource Pack’ in bold, and a yellow label stating ‘Christmas Edition December 2025

It’s Christmas!!!!

We are excited to share the Christmas Edition of the Children and Young People’s Resource Pack – packed with fun, creative, and seasonal activities to support children, young people, and families across Northern Ireland.

Whether you are a parent, carer, youth worker, teacher, or young person looking for something exciting to do on the run up to Christmas, this pack is bursting with:

  • Creative Crafts & Activities – from doodling prompts to festive garlands
  • Inclusive Resources – neuro-friendly Santa letters and sensory-friendly tips
  • Wellbeing & Kindness Calendars – promoting mental health and positive actions
  • Bereavement Support – gentle ways to remember loved ones during the holidays

Download your free copy here: https://cypsp.hscni.net/download/426/cyp-resource-pack/47234/children-young-peoples-resource-pack-christmas-dec-25.pdf

(Note: Newsletter will download directly to your device.  Look out for the pop-up box and click on open file when it appears).

Resources and activities are free and in the public domain.

Please share widely with colleagues, families, and community groups! ️

The Children’s Service Planning Team

#CYPSP #ChristmasFun #SupportingFamilies #ChildrenAndYoungPeople #ResourcePack 

Belfast Locality Planning Newsletter – 4th December 2025

Locality Planning Belfast – Information Update 04/12/25” by CYPSP and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. The left section features a green poster titled “Libraries NI Christmas Events” with festive decorations and cartoon elves at the bottom. It mentions free events in libraries across Northern Ireland, including story times, crafts, and family activities, with booking recommended. Social media icons for Facebook and Twitter are shown. The right section displays a festive image of wrapped gifts, ornaments, and pinecones on a white wooden background, with text reading “Festive Fun in Libraries Across Northern Ireland” and “Free Christmas Events in Libraries NI this December.” A footer invites sharing information via email at LocalityPlanning@belfasttrust.hscni.net

Locality Planning Belfast – Information Update 04/12/25” by CYPSP and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. The left section features a green poster titled “Libraries NI Christmas Events” with festive decorations and cartoon elves at the bottom. It mentions free events in libraries across Northern Ireland, including story times, crafts, and family activities, with booking recommended. Social media icons for Facebook and Twitter are shown. The right section displays a festive image of wrapped gifts, ornaments, and pinecones on a white wooden background, with text reading “Festive Fun in Libraries Across Northern Ireland” and “Free Christmas Events in Libraries NI this December.” A footer invites sharing information via email at LocalityPlanning@belfasttrust.hscni.net

Download Issue

(Note: Newsletter will download directly to your device.  Look out for the pop-up box and click on open file when it appears)

If you have any information you would like to share across our Locality Planning Group members in Belfast, please email: LocalityPlanning@belfasttrust.hscni.net

Western Area FYI – Issue 25 – December 2025

Your FYI is a monthly round up of all things family support and early intervention / prevention across the Western trust and beyond.

Cover page of FYI newsletter, December 2025, Issue 25, from Western Health and Social Care Trust and CYPSP. The header includes the FYI logo and the text 'For Your Information.' The contents list includes family support, youth support, cost of living, neurodiversity, infant mental health/ breastfeeding, digital safeguarding, addiction, emotional wellbeing & mental health, training/ conferences, western sure start projects/ childcare partnerships/ family support hubs, useful links & informative media links, CRIS leaflet

Cover page of FYI newsletter, December 2025, Issue 25, from Western Health and Social Care Trust and CYPSP. The header includes the FYI logo and the text ‘For Your Information.’ The contents list includes family support, youth support, cost of living, neurodiversity, infant mental health/ breastfeeding, digital safeguarding, addiction, emotional wellbeing & mental health, training/ conferences, western sure start projects/ childcare partnerships/ family support hubs, useful links & informative media links, CRIS leaflet

Download Issue 25

(Note: Newsletter will download directly to your device.  Look out for the pop-up box and click on open file when it appears)

If you would like to contribute upcoming consultations, training, articles, or events that practitioners from the community, voluntary or statutory sectors within the Western Trust will find useful please contact:

Dr Priscilla Magee – Mobile  07880723076     priscilla.magee@westerntrust.hscni.net

Paul Sweeney – Mobile  07387259117     paul.sweeney@westerntrust.hscni.net

Celebrating Excellence: Children’s Services Planning Team Recognized for Outstanding Contributions

At this year’s SPPG Recognition and Awards event, the Children’s Services Planning Team was celebrated for its exceptional work in supporting the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP). The team received multiple commendations for initiatives that have made a real difference to children, young people, and families across the region.

Driving Success Through Collaboration

The team was highly commended under the Partnership and Driving Success category for its work on The Youth Wellness Web. This innovative online platform provides young people with easy access to mental health and wellbeing resources, empowering them to find support when they need it most.

“The Youth Wellness Web is about giving young people the tools to take control of their wellbeing. It’s a collaborative effort that reflects our commitment to listening and responding to their needs,” said a spokesperson from the Children’s Services Planning Team.

Explore the Youth Wellness Web

Innovation in Data Intelligence

The team was also highly commended in the Innovation in Data Intelligence category for its Interactive Mapping and Performance System. This system represents a significant step forward in how data is used to inform planning and service delivery for children and families. By visualizing key indicators and trends, the platform enables decision-makers to target resources effectively and respond to emerging needs with precision.

Learn more about CYPSP Mapping Tools

Breaking Down Barriers with the Translation Hub

In addition, the team’s Translation Hub was recognized under the Excellence and Outstanding Performance category. This initiative ensures that vital information and resources are accessible to families whose first language is not English. By providing translated materials and culturally sensitive communication, the hub promotes inclusivity and equal access to services, strengthening support for diverse communities.

Access the Translation Hub

Commitment to Children and Families

These achievements highlight the unwavering commitment of the Children’s Services Planning Team to improving the lives of children and young people across the region. Their work demonstrates how collaboration, creativity, and data-driven approaches can lead to meaningful change and better outcomes for families.

“These projects show what can be achieved when we work together with a shared vision for children and young people. Congratulations to everyone involved,” said Tracey McCaig, Chief Operating Officer.

Congratulations to Bronwyn, Valerie, Louise, Sharon and Yvonne