The Family Information Direct programme (until 20 January 2010 the Parent Know How programme) aims to provide information, advice and support to all parents - mums, dads, grandparents, carers and other adults with caring responsibility and families in England on a range of issues they may face in bringing up children.

Free* information, advice and support is available through a number of different channels: parents and family members can ring a telephone helpline or go online for personalised advice; they can join a social network to get support from others in similar circumstances; watch online videos for handy tips; or read articles in newspapers and magazines.

The services are provided by key third sector (charities) and private sector organisations. To find out more about the services and resources available please take a look at the information available on these web pages.

The Family Information Direct programme aims to engage with parents and families in ways they connect with and provide information, advice and support that makes the job of bringing up children that little bit easier.

* Calls to telephone helplines are free from landlines and the main mobile networks.

Latest news

24 September 2009: Independent evaluation of telephone helplines and digital services

Evaluation report from ECOTEC shows 80 per cent of parents reported they were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with the information or support provided by existing Family Information Direct services. View the Research section of the Family Information Direct website to  access the report and the executive summary.

20 August 2009: Being a Parent in the Real World booklet

Booklet written by Laverne Antrobus and providers of Family Information Direct services. Contains advice and tips on how parents can be clear, stay calm and remain confident when faced with some of the key issues they face when bringing up children. It also discourages smacking and provides important information about the law on smacking. View the publications section of the Family Information Direct website to access the booklet.

June 2009: Everyday Adventures videos

Everyday adventures tells the stories of ordinary families as they face these and other challenges. The videos contain real life and animation films packed with useful information on:

• registering a child's birth
• parental rights
• benefits parents may be eligible for
• availability of extended services in schools.