Lisa Measures

Lisa Measures, children and families information service advisor, Carlisle

"I make sure that families with children aged 0-19 are aware of their entitlements by giving them advice and guidance. 

It can be anybody from a parent of a disabled child to a teen mum still living with her parents but wanting to get back into education and needing some help with the childcare costs.

Of course, every parent is eligible for some sort of help through things like free early years provision, child benefits and tax credits - and I help with all that.

I also help parents find registered childminders and nurseries and give advice on after school clubs and holiday activities.

Most of my work is done over the phone, but I also go to outreach events at places like children’s centres; sometimes I work alongside health visitors.

I get to talk to the whole range of parents from every walk of life. I get real satisfaction from being able to tell people about what they’re entitled to when they had no idea they would be. When you’ve got a family, every little helps."

To find out more about the Cumbria children and families information service visit www.cumbria.gov.uk/childrensservices/cfis or call 08457 125737 9am-5pm Monday-Friday. Information on services available locally can be found at www.help4me.info and www.wotson4u.com has lots of info on local activities for 13-19 year olds.