Pictures from the Party Our party on 21st February, held at the Trinity Centre, was brilliant fun for everyone. It was well attended by parents and children, carers, volunteers and friends and there was plenty to keep everyone happy and busy. Potty Patrick provided fun and entertainment for the children, with Christian, one of our Homesitting carers, providing musical support on guitar, and some lively participation from both children and adults! The children also enjoyed the squashy cushions, fibre optics and lights in the sensory van, which was parked outside for the day. There were plenty of other activities in the hall for the children to enjoy, including face-painting, football and computer games. Meanwhile, parents had the opportunity to relax with a healing or reflexology session with Deidre, a lovely therapist who has come to our parties before and has also provided massage training for parents. Parents were also able to spend time with Fiona, who was consulting with parents to find out what you think of Hackney Family Backup's services. This helps us to ensure that our services are ones which families actually want and also gives us ideas on how to develop to meet the needs of the families. Everyone enjoyed the plentiful and delicious food, cooked by our talented parents and volunteers; many thanks to everyone who offered to make something.

The Family Club has now met six times, with more families joining us each month. The club is for children aged 5-12 whose behaviour challenges, any brothers or sisters in this age range and their parents.

We have some fantastic Playworkers (and have just recruited some more) who provide safe, appropriate indoor and outdoor play for the children, whilst their parents have the opportunity to meet each other for discussion or relaxation over tea and cake.

For more information about the Club, please contact HFBU staff - 020 7275 0088

Many of you will already know that Emma is going on maternity leave at the beginning of May. We will all miss her, but look forward to meeting the baby when he arrives - photos in next newsletter!

While Emma is away, we have been lucky enough to recruit Catherine Love. Catherine will be working for HFBU 3 days per week.

Meanwhile, some of you will have noticed that Elizabeth Olson is now called Elizabeth Narasimha. She got married at the beginning of this year, but is saving the pictures for after the BIG wedding, which takes place in Mauritius later this year.

HFBU has now held the first two sessions of 'Speakeasy' training, run for us by the Family Planning Association. This course aims to help parents and carers feel comfortable about speaking with their children about sex and relationships. The sessions are informal and friendly - Alan, who is running the course, is a very approachable and experienced nurse.