A LEADING family centre in Southend has been rated outstanding for its work in providing support, advice and guidance to parents.

The Cambridge Road Children’s Centre, run by the Family Action organisation, was given the accolade by education watchdog Ofsted.

The inspectors concluded staff at the centre went beyond their duty in helping parents, in an area of high deprivation.

Natalie Smith, 29, who attends the centre at least once a week with her two-year-old daughter, Elsie Norris, had nothing but praise for its staff.

She said: “If parents had to rate it, we would all say it was outstanding too. The staff get on really well and it shines. They are a winning team.”

As well as providing creche facilities and health services, the centre, which is funded by Southend Council, offers family support and outreach services so all visitors can make progress and improve their personal situations.

Mark Flewitt, Southend Tory councillor responsible for children and learning, said: “We would like to thank members of the community who have embraced the work of the centre, and who are using the support to make positive changes in their lives.”

The healthy eating programme has proved particularly popular with parents concerned about their children’s relationship with food, or want to learn how to prepare cheap, balanced meals.

Miss Smith, of Kilworth Avenue, Southend, was concerned her daughter was eating far less than other children her age.

She added: “She could happily have one meal a day and live off air, but they reassured me she was eating more than enough and every child is different.

“Thanks to their sessions she will now pick up food from my plate and try it. She might not like it, but she gives it a go.”

Most of the sessions and groups at the centre are open to children up to the age of three. Miss Smith is dreading the day she can no longer take advantage of the centre.

She added: “I will feel quite sad when Elsie has to start going to a preschool. But the staff have said she can always come back for their holiday activities and I know she would love that.”