Dads Talk is a free 7-week online programme for expectant and new dads living in Brent. Starting on Thursday 15 October, the programme provides practical advice, peer support and a welcoming space for dads to connect with others as they prepare for fatherhood and life with a new baby.

Topics include:

• Becoming a dad and building confidence in the role
• Supporting a partner during pregnancy and beyond
• Understanding baby development and bonding
• Looking after wellbeing and managing stress
• Balancing work and family life
• Finding support and connecting with other local dads

We know that becoming a parent can be both exciting and challenging, and many dads tell us they value the opportunity to speak openly with other fathers experiencing similar journeys.

Help others in your community find support

Every family’s experience of accessing support in Brent is different.

You might want to share:

• What support you received
• How easy or difficult it was to access help
• What made a difference for your family
• Advice for other parents in Brent

Why Sharing Matters

By sharing your experience, you can:

• Help other families act sooner
• Improve awareness of local services
• Strengthen support in your borough
• Reduce stigma around asking for help

If you live in Brent and are struggling:

👉 Support is available locally — and reaching out could make a real difference

Step 1 – Start with Your Local Network

Speak to:

• A Family Hub / children’s centre
• Your midwife or health visitor
• A GP or support worker

👉 They can refer you directly to the right services

Step 2 – Contact Brent Council

• Visit Brent Council website
• Apply for financial or welfare assistance
• Request help with housing or cost of living

Step 3 – Ask for Help Early

• Don’t wait until things become unmanageable
• Many services can intervene sooner if contacted early

👉 There is no judgement in asking for support

⏱ How Quickly Can You Get Help?

👉 If your situation is urgent, always say so — support can often be prioritised.

💛 If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

Financial pressure can affect:

• Mental health
• Family wellbeing
• Your confidence as a parent

👉 It’s important to know:

You are not alone, and support exists locally in your community

💷 1. Brent Local Welfare Assistance (Emergency Support)

Brent Council offers financial support for families in urgent need.

You may be able to receive:

• Emergency cash support
• Food or supermarket vouchers
• Help with essential household items

💡 How quickly?

• Urgent cases can be reviewed within a few days

👉 Apply through Brent Council online or speak to a support worker for help

🏠 2. Housing and Rent Support

If you are struggling with rent or at risk of losing your home:

Support may include:

• Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)
• Help with rent arrears
• Advice on housing options

💡 How quickly?

• Varies depending on application — urgent cases prioritised

👉 Contact Brent Housing Services or speak to your local council office

🥫 3. Food and Essentials Support

You can access:

• Local food banks
• Community kitchens and food hubs
• Voucher schemes through council programmes

💡 How quickly?

• Often available same day or within a few days

👉 Family Hubs, children’s centres, or local charities can refer you

👶 4. Family Hubs & Children’s Centres (Brent)

Brent has a network of Family Wellbeing Centres that offer:

• Support during pregnancy and early years
• Parenting support and advice
• Help accessing benefits and local services
• Emotional wellbeing support

👉 These are often walk‑in or easily accessible services

🧾 5. Cost of Living Support Schemes (Brent Councils)

The council may provide:

• Cost of living payments
• Energy or utility support schemes
• Crisis hardship funding

💡 How quickly?

• Often processed within days to weeks, depending on demand

🏥 6. Health and Pregnancy Support

You can access:

• Midwives and health visitors
• NHS Healthy Start support
• Free prescriptions and maternity care

👉 These services also help connect you to financial and practical support

👩‍👧 7. Support for Single Parents

Brent services recognise the additional pressure on single parents.

You can access:

• Priority support through Family Hubs
• Help with childcare advice and services
• Financial support guidance

If you live in Brent, there is a range of support available through the council, NHS services, and local community organisations to help families struggling with the rising cost of living.

At Basch Helps, we understand that finding the right support can feel overwhelming — especially when you need help quickly.

👉 This guide is here to make things clearer, simpler, and easier to access.

❤️ How Basch Helps Supports Brent Families

Alongside council services, Basch Helps provides:

• AngelBox emergency support (baby essentials)
• Emotional support through befriending
• Help navigating local services
• A safe and supportive space

👉 We work alongside local services to make sure families get the help they need