Livesey and Shadsworth Family Hubs have received Gold certification following inspections by local young people, recognising their welcoming environments, accessible services and commitment to supporting families.
Two Family Hubs in Blackburn with Darwen have been awarded prestigious Gold certification following assessments carried out by the borough's Young Inspectors.
Livesey Family Hub and Shadsworth Family Hub both received the highest recognition after young people examined the quality of their services, accessibility and the support available to children, parents and families.
The inspections highlighted the welcoming, inclusive and non-judgemental environments provided by both centres, where families can access advice, guidance and practical assistance.
Young people helping shape local services
The Blackburn with Darwen Young Inspectors project gives young people an opportunity to evaluate services they use and provide honest, constructive feedback.
Participants assess how welcoming, accessible and effective services are, helping organisations understand what works well and where improvements could be made.
The inspection reports praised both Family Hubs for their commitment to supporting children and families, strengthening community connections and ensuring young people's voices influence the services available to them.
The hubs bring together a wide range of support services under one roof, assisting families from pregnancy onwards, including young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) up to the age of 25.
Shadsworth nursery praised for SEND support
Shadsworth Family Hub's nursery received particular recognition for its additional role as a SEND Hub.
Inspectors highlighted the specialist staff, equipment and resources available to children with additional needs.
The nursery also provides tailored support, guidance for families navigating SEND services and close partnership working with health, education and specialist professionals.
Both Family Hubs were praised for their staff's dedication and shared commitment to improving outcomes for children and families.
Council welcomes Gold awards
Councillor Julie Gunn, Blackburn with Darwen Council's Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, welcomed the recognition.
She said the inspections demonstrated how important the Family Hubs were to local families and praised the young people for taking the time to research, scrutinise and interview those involved.
Councillor Gunn also thanked staff for their commitment to ensuring the centres provide accessible support and advice.
Young Inspectors celebrate success
Deputy Youth MP Arianna Sultana described taking part in the inspections as a positive experience.
She said the project allowed young people to share their views on what makes services welcoming, accessible and useful for families.
Arianna welcomed the Gold awards and said it was particularly rewarding to know that the inspectors' opinions had been genuinely listened to and valued.
Former Youth MP Zainab Shah also praised the hubs, describing their Gold accreditation as well deserved.
Deputy Youth MP Ali Shah said he had been impressed by the variety of services available and the welcoming, supportive staff at both locations.
Putting families and young people first
The inspection findings recognised the commitment of both hubs to ensuring children, young people and families can influence the services they receive.
Staff were praised for their strong work ethic and shared focus on supporting local communities.
The Gold awards recognise the work taking place across Blackburn with Darwen to provide accessible, family-focused services and ensure children receive the best possible start in life.
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