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Project Overview
The Breaking the Barriers Project is the flagship initiative of Family Friends of Prescot. It was created to provide long-term, trauma-informed support to families in Prescot who are experiencing the effects of personal trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and complex social challenges.
This project is designed to fill the critical gap between short-term interventions and the long-term, hands-on support that families truly need. By working directly with families in their homes and communities, we aim to break cycles of trauma and disadvantage—empowering parents and children to build healthier, more resilient futures.
We focus on families who are often overlooked by statutory services or who struggle to navigate complex systems. Our approach is relational, practical, and deeply rooted in the local community.
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Key Outcomes
We are committed to delivering measurable, life-changing results. Our targets include:
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✅ 70% of families reporting improved coping skills and emotional resilience
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✅ 25% reduction in referrals to NHS mental health services
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✅ 100% of families connected to at least one relevant community resource or support network
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✅ 60% of families requiring no further intervention after two years
These outcomes are tracked through pre- and post-intervention assessments, family feedback, and collaboration with local partners.
How It Works
Our model is built on accessibility, trust, and tailored support:
Referral Pathways
Families are referred through:
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Local schools and pastoral teams
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Churches and clergy
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Community organisations and charities
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Social services
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Self-referrals
Triage and Prioritisation
When referrals exceed capacity, we use a structured triage system to prioritise families based on:
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Severity of trauma
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Vulnerability factors (e.g. domestic abuse, overcrowding, mental health)
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Potential for long-term impact
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Geographic focus (L34 and L35 postcodes)
Support Delivery
Each family receives a bespoke support plan, which may include:
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In-home visits from trained Family Support Workers
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Trauma-informed therapy (e.g. counselling, art/play therapy)
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SEN advocacy and educational support
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Practical help with routines, appointments, and home life
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Cultural and community engagement experiences
All work is overseen by a qualified CEO with safeguarding and trauma expertise.

Get Involved
You can help us break the barriers that hold families back:
🤝 Volunteer
Join our team of trained volunteers and make a direct impact in your community. We provide full training and ongoing support.
📩 Refer a Family
If you know a family in Prescot who could benefit from our support, please get in touch. We accept referrals from professionals and individuals.
💙 Donate
Your donation helps us provide therapy, support workers, and essential resources to families in need. Every contribution makes a difference.