Hull City Council, in collaboration NHS partners, is rolling out a series of ‘Tea and Chat’ events aimed at supporting families facing challenges with school attendance.
These informal sessions offer a welcoming space for parents, carers and children to access free advice and support around issues such as anxiety, mental health and general wellbeing.
With school attendance in Hull now aligning with the national average, Tea and Chat seeks to build on this progress by addressing barriers that may prevent children from attending school confidently and consistently.
Whether families are dealing with health concerns, emotional struggles, or other pressures, the events provide a judgement-free environment to talk and receive guidance.
What’s available at the sessions:
- A quiet space for a cuppa and conversation
- Mental health and wellbeing advice for children, teens and parents
- Support with attendance-related challenges
- Guidance on health concerns and counselling services
- Access to Hull City Council’s Education Welfare Team and NHS professionals
- Held across localities during the autumn, winter and summer terms, these sessions are open to all—no booking required. Families can also access an online resource page for further support if they’re unable to attend in person.
The next Tea and Chat sessions are taking place on the following dates:
Thursday 2 October – Marfleet Family Hub – Preston Rd, HU9 5AN – 12 – 2pm
Monday 6 October – Kingston Youth Centre – Beverley Road, HU3 1YE – 10am – 12pm
Tuesday 7 October – The Parks Family Hub – Courtway Rd, HU6 9TA – 12.30 – 2.30pm
Cllr Linda Tock, portfolio holder for children’s services at the council, said: “It is brilliant news that Hull’s attendance levels now align with the national average, but that doesn’t mean we should stop there.
“Helping families overcome the barriers to school attendance is one of the most important things we can do.
“It’s not about blame – it’s about working together to give every child the best chance.
“We know every family’s situation is different and we’re here to listen, not judge. Our role is to make sure support is available when it’s needed most.”
For more information on support available, please visit Hull City Council’s website.
www.hull.gov.uk/schoolattendance
