Our Family Support Directory provides an overview of local and national support services available to families, organised to help you quickly find relevant information based on age group and type of support required.
Structure of the directory
Support information is grouped in two main ways.
Age-related categories
Within each age group, support services are listed under the following subheadings:
- Benefits and financial support - includes grants, allowances, and other financial assistance available to families and individuals.
- Health - covers physical and mental health services, including access to GPs, mental health support, and specialist services.
- Clothing and additional support items - information on services offering clothing, school uniforms, and other essential items.
- Early Years provision - support for young children, including childcare, nursery placements, and early education.
- Kinship, foster, and adoption care - resources and support available for those providing care under kinship, fostering, or adoption arrangements.
- Additional Support Needs - services tailored to children and young people with additional support or learning needs.
Specific category headings
Some services are listed under broader category headings. These may be:
- Age-specific, serving particular stages of development or age groups.
- Universal, available to individuals of all ages depending on need.
How to use the directory
- Start by identifying the relevant age category of the child or young person in need of support.
- Within that section, browse the subcategories to locate the type of support required.
- Alternatively, refer to the specific category headings for services that may not be limited by age.
For further assistance or clarification on any service listed, please refer to the contact details provided in the directory or contact your local support worker.
Submitting services to the Family Support Directory
If you are aware of a service that supports children, young people, and families within the Scottish Borders, and you believe it should be included in the Family Support Directory, we welcome your input.
Please email the relevant service information to familydirectory@scotborders.gov.uk. Please note, this email should only be used for this purpose. If you are looking for support or assistance with a service already listed please refer to the contact information on the relevant service page or contact your local support worker.
We appreciate your help in keeping the Family Support Directory up to date and relevant for all who use it.