EPIC is working with Thrive at Five to help families with young children in Bentilee, Abbey Hulton and Meir connect with local activities, support and opportunities.
The partnership will support EPIC tenants with children under five, helping families find out what is available in their local community and access support that can help give children the best possible start in life.
Thrive at Five works with families, schools, early years settings and local organisations across Stoke-on-Trent. Its work includes connecting families with parent, baby and toddler groups, peer support and trusted advice, as well as helping parents support their children’s communication, learning and development.
Thrive at Five has been working in Stoke-on-Trent since 2021, initially in Bentilee and Abbey Hulton, and expanded its work into Meir and Burslem in 2026.
Through the new partnership, EPIC will introduce eligible families to Thrive at Five and give them the opportunity to arrange an informal joint visit with both organisations to find out more about the support and activities available.
Cindy Gleghorn, Director of Housing Management at EPIC, said:
“We’re really pleased to be working with Thrive at Five. We know how important the first few years of a child’s life are, and this partnership is about making it easier for families to find out about the support and opportunities available in their local community.
By bringing EPIC and Thrive at Five together, we hope we can reach more families and help them make connections that can have a positive impact for both parents and children.”
Karla Capstick, Thrive at Five’s Director of Programme Stoke-on-Trent said:
“We’re delighted to partner with EPIC and welcome their commitment to helping us reach more families in our target areas. We look forward to meeting and making connections with families who perhaps have never previously benefitted from the support that Thrive at Five can offer.
It is through partnerships such as this that we can help to build stronger, more connected support so that even more children in Stoke-on-Trent get what they need to thrive.”
The two organisations will also work together on activities for families over the coming months, including plans to mark World Nursery Rhyme Week in November and a festive party in December.
EPIC will soon be contacting local families with young children to introduce Thrive at Five and the support available. If you receive a letter and would like to find out more, contact EPIC by calling 01782 252575 or emailing reception@epichousing.co.uk.
