Aida Cable, CEO of Thrive at Five and Kids Matter supporter, explains just how important community is to confident, competent parenting…
We asked members of the community in Stoke-on-Trent (the 12th most deprived council district in the England) who were standing in a queue to visit a food bank, what they most need in their community right now. Here’s what they said:
The problem we have, is that we’re isolated; we’re alone – and that’s what we are really struggling with. When we’re alone, we’re unsupported and our wellbeing is affected, and this affects our ability to be the parents that we want to be.
The simple ask from the parents who queued for food, wasn’t food; it was an ask for support.
And the instinct of parents is right.
While we may not be able to eradicate poverty, we can mitigate the impact of poverty on children. Strengthen the environment around a child – look after parents and carers, look after the neighbourhood and community – and that child will be strong.
Prior to joining Thrive at Five Aida Cable worked at The Royal Foundation of the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and now Prince and Princess of Wales. She brings a wealth of experience in the early childhood development space and is a major supporter of Kids Matter and our vision to see every child in need raised in a strong family.