Family Information Service

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Family Information Service Whether you are looking for childcare, family support, health services or a wide range of other information, the Family Information Service can help.

The Family Information Service (FIS), previously known as CHAT, provides tailored information, advice and guidance for families with children from pre-birth to 19 and those working with families. We understand that the information and support you need will vary throughout your child's life. From the moment you find out you're expecting right up until your child becomes an adult – we're here to guide you through the services, opportunities and entitlements available to you and your family. We offer guidance on a range of topics, including:

• Childcare
Sourcing childcare, understanding the jargon, accessing financial support to pay for childcare

• School admissions
Key dates, catchment areas, how to apply, making a school preference, understanding school reports

• Leisure opportunities
Family Hubs, local groups and clubs

• Rights for working parents
Maternity/paternity leave, flexible working options, taking time off for dependents

• Financial entitlements
Accessing family benefits; including funding for 2 year olds and early years education for 3 – 4 year olds, applying for free school meals and school transport, completing claim forms and estimating tax credits

• Family support
Help to make life as a parent/carer run smoothly

🌧️ Rainy-day funDon’t let the wet weather dampen your half-term fun! ☔💦Pull on the wellies, splash in some puddles and g...
20/10/2026

🌧️ Rainy-day fun

Don’t let the wet weather dampen your half-term fun! ☔💦
Pull on the wellies, splash in some puddles and give Pitter Patter from 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five a go.

✨ Looking for more half-term inspiration? Visit the 50 Things Portsmouth website or download the free app to discover lots more activities to enjoy together.

https://portsmouth.50thingstodo.org/

20/10/2026

🌱 Go To Grow: Every Second is a Learning Opportunity 🌱

Did you know that every day your child spends at nursery, preschool or with their childminder is filled with opportunities to learn, grow and thrive?

From building friendships and confidence to developing language, creativity and independence, those everyday moments all add up. Regular attendance helps children make the most of these valuable experiences and supports them to feel settled, secure and ready to learn.

✨ Every conversation, every activity, every discovery matters.

15/10/2026
15/10/2026

Children’s brains are like sponges.

From your words, to your actions – they'll copy everything you do, including your screen use habits.

Try to be mindful of how often you use screens around your little ones.

Visit Best Start in Life for more guidance on healthy routines, screen-use limits, and better content choices.

15/10/2026

🌟 Every second is a learning opportunity 🌟

The early years are full of important moments. From building friendships and confidence to developing communication skills and a love of learning, every day in your child's early education makes a difference.

A regular routine of attending nursery, preschool or childcare helps children feel settled, secure and ready to make the most of all the exciting experiences on offer.

If you're facing challenges getting your child to their setting, speak to the staff team. They're there to listen and help.

14/10/2026
14/10/2026

Fruit and vegetables are a perfect snack, and count towards your five-a-day.🌽

With NHS Healthy Start, you could get support towards the cost of healthy, fresh food important in a balanced diet.

Find out more: www.healthystart.nhs.uk

12/10/2026

Early years education and childcare can benefit your child and your family 🌻

If you have a child aged 3 or 4 years old, you can get 15 hours childcare per week over 38 weeks, regardless of income levels, benefit status, or family circumstances.

Visit Best Start in Life to see how you and your family could benefit.

Address

Family Information Service, Ground Floor, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square
Portsmouth
PO12AL

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+442392822251

Website

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