Plymouth’s anchor institutions unite to support parents with new online resource

Visit the Plymouth Online Directory
Parent Portal

Plymouth’s anchor institutions unite to support parents with new online resource

Visit the Plymouth Online Directory

Plymouth’s four largest anchor institutions, Plymouth City Council, Babcock International Group, the University of Plymouth, and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, have united to improve information for parents, to ensure that they can access the support, resources, and information they need to help their families thrive.
Recognising a gap in accessible information for families, the partners have worked closely with the Plymouth Online Directory to ensure parents can easily find the guidance, services, and resources they need to support their children’s health, education, and wellbeing.

A coordinated response for families

This collaboration builds on the Civic Engagement Agreement signed last year which committed the city’s major employers to tackling inequality and driving inclusive growth. By focusing on parents, the organisations are addressing one of the most important foundations of community wellbeing, ensuring families have the right information at the right time.
The improved parents’ resource hub will provide:
  • Clear signposting to local services, from childcare and schools to health and wellbeing support.  
  • Guidance on financial assistance, housing, and employment support for families.  
  • Practical advice for navigating challenges such as special educational needs, healthcare access, and community activities.  
  • A single, trusted platform where parents can find up-to-date information tailored to Plymouth.

Education begins at home, and parents play a crucial role in shaping aspirations.

By making information more accessible, we are empowering families to unlock opportunities for lifelong learning and growth.

Richard DaviesProfessor Richard Davies
Vice-Chancellor

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Parents are at the heart of our communities. By working together, we can make sure families feel supported and informed, helping children to thrive and ensuring Plymouth remains a city of opportunity for all.”
John Gane, Managing Director, Babcock Devonport, added: “Supporting families is vital to building a resilient workforce and a stronger community. This initiative ensures parents have the tools they need to guide their children towards brighter futures.”
Sarah Brampton, Deputy Chief Executive, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, commented: “Health and wellbeing are deeply connected to family life. This partnership ensures parents can access trusted advice and services that help children stay healthy and thrive.”

What this means for Plymouth  

The initiative reflects the Civic Engagement Group’s shared commitment to tackling inequality by supporting families at the earliest stages of life. By strengthening parental access to information, the partners aim to:  
  • Improve child health and educational outcomes.  
  • Reduce stress and uncertainty for families navigating complex systems.  
  • Build stronger connections between parents and local services.  
Accessing the resource:  
Parents can explore the new hub via the Plymouth Online Directory now.
The page's launch marks another step in the Civic Engagement Agreement’s mission to deliver social value and inclusive growth for Plymouth. By working together, the city’s largest institutions are ensuring that families, the foundation of our communities, have the support they need to thrive.