Blackburn families see two hubs earn top inspection rating
Two family support centres in Blackburn with Darwen have received Gold certification after young inspectors assessed how welcoming, accessible and useful they are for families.
Livesey Family Hub and Shadsworth Family Hub were reviewed by the BWD Young Inspectors, a project that gives young people the chance to inspect services they use and offer critical, constructive feedback. The reports found both hubs provided welcoming, non-judgemental settings where families could seek support, advice and guidance.
Support from pregnancy through to adulthood
The hubs bring a range of services together under one roof, supporting families from pregnancy through to adulthood. Support also extends to young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) up to age 25.
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Inspectors highlighted Shadsworth’s nursery as also acting as a SEND hub. The report noted specialist staff, additional equipment and resources, tailored support for children with diverse needs, and guidance for families navigating SEND pathways. It also described close work with health, education and specialist services.
Young people assessed the services
The inspection project aims to give young people a voice in services that affect their communities. Inspectors spoke with staff and considered how the hubs support families, involve young people and make services accessible.
Deputy Youth MP Arianna Sultana said the young inspectors were able to view the hubs from a young person’s perspective and felt their views were listened to. Former Youth MP Zainab Shah said the inspections gave insight into what the hubs offer, while Deputy Youth MP Ali Shah praised the range of services and supportive staff.
The reports also said both centres give children, young people and families opportunities to influence the services they receive, with children’s voices central to sessions and support.
Source: Blackburn with Darwen Council News
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This report is based on the supplied Blackburn with Darwen council news item and its account of the young inspectors’ findings.
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- Blackburn with Darwen Council News
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- Blackburn with Darwen
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- 2026-10-16 12:06
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