Children's
& Young People's Services
Family Information Service (FIS)
FIS Minimum Standards
Introduction
The Family Information Service (FIS) was introduced by the Department
for Education and Employment Office (DfEE) now known as the Department for Children,
Schools and Families (DCSF) as part of the Green Paper "Meeting the Childcare Challenge".
The principle role of the FIS is to provide information to parents on the availability
of all childcare provision. The service also provides parents, carers, employers
and children with information on leisure, library, education, youth and other
London Borough of Bexley services as well as support groups, doctors, dentists, health
clinics, training and many other relevant childcare services.
Family Information Service Statement
of Service
Bexley's FIS is dedicated to providing information and guidance
on a full range of children's services to parents, carers, employers,
professionals and children and young people from ages 0-19 years. This service
is confidential, free of charge, reflects the diverse needs of the local community
and is committed to equality of opportunity. The service also has direct access
to London Borough of Bexley services such as education, leisure, libraries and strong links
with the health service. The FIS has a team of qualified staff with specific,
in-depth knowledge and experience of its sector. The service operates a dedicated
telephone help line and outside hours has an answer phone facility and can be
accessed through email or the Web. The information provided is kept accurate
and up to date. |
Overarching Principles
The following information is available through the FIS and is provided within
one normal working day where possible:
- Providers name and contact details;
- Type of provision, including whether or not registered, age range and number
of places catering for children of each age;
- Availability;
- Ability to cater for children with Special Needs;
- Cost of service;
- Statement by the provider and a mini profile about themselves;
- Provider's Training/Qualifications;
- Date of last inspection by OFSTED.
The FIS provides impartial information, complies with the Data Protection
Act and adheres to equal opportunities practices. Parents in particular are encouraged
to access relevant advice in the following areas:
- How to choose a childcare provider;
- The services offered by different types of childcare provider;
- Training opportunities in child care across the borough;
- Financial assistance that may be available;
- The registration process and what to do if parents have concerns about providers;
- Advice on other services such as education, leisure, health, parenting/family
support;
The FIS maintains regular contact with local providers of childcare to ensure
that they are happy about the accuracy and extent of information provided. Providers
are able to correct information quickly and easily, or restrict the availability
and sensitivity of information (e.g. childminders address or informal registered
childcare).
Core Information
The FIS is an unbiased service, providing information, which encourages users
to make informed choices on various forms of childcare without further signposting.
Details are available on all registered providers and where possible, non-registered
providers.
Updating Core Information
The FIS works closely with providers ensuring that their vacancy details and
information is regularly updated. The FIS have regular contact with OFSTED to
ensure that updated information is received as soon as possible. Changes of provider
details are automatically updated. In the event of any form of complaint, provider
details may be removed from the database dependant on the type of complaint and
until further investigation. De-registered providers are removed from the database
within one working day of notification.
Additional Information
The FIS holds or is able to signpost enquirers to all neighbouring FIS's and
support groups. It has links with private, voluntary and maintained sector providers
in addition to local NHS groups, businesses and employers. Further details can
be found in the Directory of Services for Children
and Families.
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Access
The FIS is sensitive to the needs and requirements of all who need to make
use of the service. Information is provided free of charge and is available Monday
to Friday 9.00 – 5.00 and is accessible at times suitable to working or
studying parents through the answer phone facility. The FIS responds to all calls
within one normal working day.
In addition the FIS distributes leaflets and various publications on types
of childcare available as well as information on which financial benefits may
be available, at public access points and local events.
Information is also available through the website via the Childcare Link on  www.childcarelink.org.uk.
The FIS provides an an extensive outreach service and is available to attend
events throughout the Borough.
Publicity and Marketing
In order to gain maximum publicity and marketing throughout the borough a
combination of methods is used such as leaflets and posters displayed in various
public locations. Feature articles in many publications in particular Bexley
Council's own magazine delivered free of charge to every household, also raise
awareness of the service. The FIS advertise through every child's Personal Child
Health Record issued to all parents on the birth of their child. Publicity is
also achieved by advertising in the red business directory, the local information
section of the "Yellow Pages" as well as through the "Thompson Directory".
The FIS also occasionally runs campaigns on the local radio station.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Profiles are regularly sent to users to gauge views on the level of service.
Using this information the FIS constantly strives to improve the service.
Communication and Liaison With Key Partners
The FIS enhances the level of service provided by building effective relationships
with relevant organisations including Jobcentre Plus, the NHS Childcare Co-ordinator
and local employers.
If you would like further information on childcare please contact the Family Information Service on:
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Useful Contacts
- Extended Services In and Around Schools
- Telephone: 020 8836 8418
- Ofsted
- All enquiries: 08456 404040
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