A new series of online relationship, health and wellbeing resources worth £100 per person have been launched in Somerset.

The learning resources are available to all Somerset residents, and span topics such as pregnancy, labour and birth, parenting, mental health and wellbeing, and relationships.  

Residents can access the online learning by:  

• Visiting bitly/LearnForLove or scanning a QR code with their phone
• Entering the code ‘dragon’ 

They can then choose the subjects they are most interested in learning about – there is no limit on the number of resources residents can access. An email address is needed for those signing up, but no other personal information is needed.  

Tessa Munt, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education at Somerset Council said:

Who doesn’t want better relationships, improved wellbeing and less stress? This is an absolutely fantastic offer for teenagers, parents, grandparents, and carers. I would encourage everyone to have a look on the website and see what’s available.

There really is something for everyone – resources for new and expectant parents to improve their emotional and physical health, and bond with their new baby; for parents, grandparents and caregivers to help them learn more about childhood brain development and behaviours; and for teenagers to help them learn about their mind and their emotions. I will certainly be taking advantage of this great offer, and have already enrolled myself!

Andrew Keefe, Deputy Director of Commissioning at NHS Somerset responsible for Children, Young People and Families said:

In Somerset, our shared ambition is to lead the way in ‘early help’ – getting people the right help quickly, so that they can stay healthy and well, achieve their goals, and enjoy a good quality of life. To do this, it’s vital that all our public services work together with communities to develop support that gives people choice and control.  

This scheme for parents, carers, and grandparents is really positive. Evidence suggests that there are enormous benefits to providing people with opportunities which support wellbeing and healthy relationships. For example, we know that the early years of a child’s life can have a lasting impact on their future. Giving families more options to support their childrens’ development can only be a good thing, and I’m thrilled that we’re able offer this valuable support to every single Somerset resident as part of the Connect Somerset programme.

#LearnForLove is a Connect Somerset Project delivered by Somerset Council. Connect Somerset is a partnership between Somerset Council, Somerset NHS, Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprises (VCFSEs), schools, colleges and early years settings, which aims to make it easier for Somerset residents to get the help they need and to get it early.  

To find out more about Connect Somerset, contact ConnectSomerset@somerset.gov.uk.