The Taunton area PFSA peer sessions have been very successful, with increasing participation from PFSAs and non-classroom based pastoral support teams. Each session is convened by the Connect Somerset Champion for the Taunton area, supported by professional practitioners from the Family Intervention Service.
Initial feedback highlights the value of providing a space for PFSAs to access peer support. While some participants are part of larger networks, others may be working independently within one school or across multiple schools. Some attendees are not PFSAs but provide pastoral and PFSA-aligned support as part of their broader role. The group identifies useful topics and tasks the Connect Somerset Champion with sourcing agencies and speakers from the local community to enhance their knowledge and skills. Family Intervention Service team members are also available to assist with casework discussions, build system understanding, and address complex issues collaboratively.
Schools represented to date include: Bishop Henderson, Blackbrook, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Churchstanton, Creech St Michael, Holway Park, Holy Trinity, Kingston St Mary, Lyngford Park, Monkton Wood, Nerrols, North Taunton, Parkfield, Ruishton, St James, St Georges, West Monkton.
