The Connect Conference, held at Foxhill on 22 March, brought together people from across the Diocese to share and discuss ways to connect with children and families. The day was fully booked and included a mix of speakers, time for discussion, and workshops.
What became apparent as the day progressed was just how much work is being done by organisations to provide advice, help, and support.
One of the speakers, Helen Wade (below) gave a presentation on Ferries Family Group, where she works as a project manager. The charity, which began in 1988, started as a small group of people who wanted to help families in the community. She explained that from that seed of an idea, a charity was formed which now employs a core group of five part-time workers and sixty volunteers. One aspect of their work is organising various courses, such as reading, confidence building and a mental health first aid course. Helen was keen to explain how the Ferries Family Group catered for families with young children: “We try and run a creche alongside most courses to enable parents to attend”.
Helen Wade, Project Manager at Ferries Family Groups
Jenny Macquire from Adoption Matters, a Christian organisation with a long history working with the Anglican Church, explained how they work with people of all faiths and none, and have close links with local authorities.
Several groups were represented on the day, all sharing great ideas and information on how to get things done quickly and effectively, like applying for grants and working with local authorities.
The Diocese of Chester is passionate about enabling and supporting parishes in their ministry with young generations and families.
If you would like advice on the different ways to connect with children, young people and families in your parish, contact Vanessa Layfield, Engagement and Inclusion Officer at the Diocese of Chester or Jonathan Masters, Youth, Children and Families Missioner for the Diocese of Chester. They will be happy to connect you with the appropriate training, resources or organisation for your needs, including welcoming you to join our local children, family and youth leader network, Leaders of Young Generations.