A WIDE range of support to help get youngsters back into school is on offer to families in the Maldon district.

In the week where schools and colleges reopen, it is feared that up to a quarter of children nationally will not yet return to school – with many kept at home by their parents.

Essex County Council has put together details of support services from those helping children and young adults to cope with the impact and fear of coronavirus, through to finding new ways to travel to and from school.

In an open letter to parents and carers, education and public health chiefs at the county council said: "We recognise the significant impact that COVID-19 has had on many families' lives, and that some families will need more support during this time. We will therefore be asking all schools and colleges to work with families who are anxious about their child returning to the classroom to understand the individual circumstances and the concerns they have.

"We are sharing advice, resources and information about local organisations that can help children to prepare to go back to school with confidence as part of our Every Family Matters campaign.

"We would like to wish all young people, their parents and families, and school staff our best wishes for a safe and successful start to the autumn term. We know that whether you are starting a new school for the first time, returning after a long period away from your school setting, or returning from the summer break, the start of a new school term is always an exciting but anxious time – we know this year there will be more nerves than usual, but have confidence in our school leaders and staff that they will welcome you back with warmth, support and understanding."

To find out more about the services available visit Staying Well: Children and Families page on the Essex County Council website.