New Stay & Play Group support Families in High Valleyfield

A new Stay & Play group supporting families with young children in High Valleyfield is already making a positive difference in the local community thanks to funding from Fife Health Charity and our supporters. The group was established with funding for a Micro Grant awarded to the Health Visiting Service, led by Carol Hunter, Health Visitor Team Leader. 

The project was created to support families with children under the age of two who had been identified as vulnerable and in need of additional community-based support. Based in an area facing significant social and geographical challenges, the group aims to reduce isolation, encourage early child development and build parents' confidence through a welcoming and inclusive environment. 
Since launching, the group has begun receiving referrals and has been warmly welcomed by local families. Early feedback shows that the sessions are helping to build trusting relationships between parents and professionals while creating opportunities for families to connect with one another and access support. To date, 16 people have benefited from the project. 

The team behind the initiative is particularly proud of the collaborative effort that brought the group to life and of seeing families actively engage with their children while feeling comfortable accepting support when needed. Parents and carers have provided positive verbal feedback, highlighting the value of having a safe and supportive space within their community. 

Although the project is still in its early stages, its impact is already evident. The group is helping to strengthen relationships with parents and carers while supporting the healthy development of vulnerable children. There are also plans to involve a range of partner services, including Childsmile, car safety specialists and social work early help and support teams, ensuring families can access a wider network of advice and assistance in one place.