Family Liaison Officer (FLO)

• Supporting Children, Families and Our School Community 

  At St. Sebastian's, Miss Coffey is our Family Liaison Officer (FLO). She plays a vital role in building positive relationships between home and school, ensuring that every child and family feels valued, supported and able to flourish. 

  The FLO's primary aim is to help parents and carers feel engaged, informed and empowered to play an active role in their child's education, wellbeing and personal development. Miss Coffey provides pastoral, emotional and practical support in a caring, confidential and non-judgemental manner. 

  We recognise the significant impact a Family Liaison Officer can have on children's wellbeing and family engagement. Miss Coffey is a trusted member of both our school and wider community who listens without bias and provides support whenever it is needed. 

   

  Miss Coffey's Roles and Qualifications 

  Miss Coffey undertakes a number of key responsibilities within school, including: 

  • Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) 

  • Mental Health First Aider 

  • Mental Health Champion 

  • Rainbows Bereavement Counsellor 

  She is also available to arrange home visits and meetings to welcome new families to our school community. 

   

  A Trusted Adult in School 

  Miss Coffey is a familiar and reassuring presence for children and families. She welcomes children and parents on the school gate each morning and is available throughout the day to provide support. 

  She has a dedicated quiet space within school where children can talk openly about any worries or concerns they may have. This safe and nurturing environment helps children feel heard, valued and supported. 

  Importantly, Miss Coffey is here for all families, not just those who are new to our school. Whether you need support, advice or simply someone to talk to, she is always happy to meet for a coffee and a chat. 

   

  How Miss Coffey Supports Families 

  Parenting Support 

  Miss Coffey works directly with parents and carers to: 

  • Offer advice and guidance on practical parenting strategies. 

  • Support the development of positive routines and boundaries at home. 

  • Help maintain consistency between home and school. 

  • Provide support during periods of family or parental conflict. 

  Improving Attendance 

  Regular school attendance is essential for children's achievement, wellbeing and social development. 

  If a child's attendance begins to decline, Miss Coffey will work closely with the child and family to identify any underlying barriers, such as: 

  • Anxiety or emotional wellbeing concerns. 

  • Difficulties with transport. 

  • Medical needs or ongoing illness. 

  • Family circumstances affecting attendance. 

  She will work collaboratively with families to create a supportive plan that helps children re-engage with school and attend regularly. 

  Emotional Health and Wellbeing 

  Miss Coffey provides support and guidance for families experiencing emotional or wellbeing difficulties and can assist with accessing appropriate services. 

  She works closely with Place2Be and can refer children for additional emotional wellbeing support when appropriate. 

  As a qualified Rainbows Bereavement Counsellor, she can also support children experiencing loss and bereavement. 

   

  Accessing Additional Support Services 

  Miss Coffey can make referrals and help families access a range of specialist services, including: 

  • Early Help 

  • Young Carers Services 

  • Place2Be 

  • iReach 

  • Domestic abuse support services 

   

  Practical Support for Families 

  Miss Coffey can help families access practical assistance, including: 

  • Wood Street Mission for school uniform, Christmas presents and essential family items. 

  • Local food banks and community support services. 

  • Stork for baby equipment and essential baby items. 

  • Stork Boost for CV support, skills development and assistance with employment opportunities. 

  • Support with communication and advocacy involving housing providers, including repairs and housing-related concerns. 

  Pupil Support 

  In addition to supporting families, Miss Coffey works directly with children in school who may require additional support with their Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, emotional wellbeing or behaviour. 

  Through tailored interventions, nurturing relationships and therapeutic approaches, she helps pupils develop confidence, resilience and positive strategies for managing their emotions and interactions with others. 

  Support available includes: 

  • 1:1 and small group support 

  • Rainbows bereavement support 

  • Play therapy 

  • Art therapy 

  • Lego Therapy® (child-led sessions that encourage communication, cooperation and problem-solving skills) 

  • Social communication support 

  • Starving the Anger Gremlin Programme 

  • Starving the Anxiety Gremlin Programme 

  These interventions help children develop self-regulation, build positive relationships, improve communication skills and overcome barriers that may be affecting their learning, wellbeing or attendance. 

   

  Working Together 

  At St. Sebastian's, we believe that strong partnerships between home and school are key to ensuring every child succeeds. 

  No concern is too small. Whether you need practical support, emotional guidance, help accessing services or simply someone to listen, Miss Coffey is here to help. 

  Please contact the school office if you would like to arrange a confidential conversation. 

  "Working together to support every child and family to flourish." 

   

   "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ."

  Galatians 6:2

  This verse reflects the heart of the FLO role: supporting families through challenges, helping children overcome barriers, listening without judgement, and working alongside parents to ensure that no family feels alone.