Welcome, my name is Mrs Karen Gunning and I am the Family Engagement Officer at Severn Primary School.

The key role of a Family Engagement Officer is to work with families to help overcome any barriers to childrens' learning.  I work closely with parents on issues that may be impacting on themselves and/or their child's well-being by providing advice and support when it can be hard to know where to turn.  I can offer support and advice on a wide range of issues and can signpost parents towards outside agencies.

Part of my role is to work closely with all staff, outside agencies and organisations to improve opportunities for children and their families at our school.  An integral part of my role is linking families with other agencies, both statutory and non-statutory such as School Nurses, Parenting workshops/programmes, Young Carers, Counselling Services, Finance Advice Services, Parent Support Groups, to name a few!

Sometimes the stresses of everyday life can be overwhelming for all of us and you may feel you just need to talk these through with someone.  You may need help with social and emotional wellbeing, including friendship issues, grief and loss, parental separation, parenting, absence and lateness, behaviour and other issues outside of these.

Should you have a personal concern or a school related issue, then please feel free to come and talk to me.

You can contact me:

In person through the school office or by the school telephone. Tel: 02920 387507 or by email: karen.gunning@cardiff.gov.uk 

Below are some useful websites and contact numbers that may be of interest to you:

Cardiff Parenting Services - Tel: 03000 133 133 or www.cardifffamilies.co.uk

www.citizensadvice.org.uk - general advice on most subjects

www.shelter.org.uk - housing and debt advice

www.cardiff-fis.info - The Index - advice and support for parents of children with ALN

Cardiff Family Gateway - Tel: 03000 133 133

Cardiff Council Housing Options Service - Tel: 02920 570750