The Outreach Van

This vehicle was purchased in January 2003 from a firm in Yeovil and was converted for play and consultation by a firm in Exeter. Seven first schools were approached and their pupils asked to design a Clown. The best from each was picked to represent their school. The winning pictures were then transferred onto special plastic, then onto the side of the van. Schools taking part were Cutcombe, Dulverton, Dunster, Knights Templar at Watchet, Old Cleeve, St. Peters at Williton and Timberscombe. Each was given computer vouchers and the van was taken to show the children at each school.
The van has a consultation area behind the driving seats and a separate section converted for play with a sand pit, painting table, book rack and lots of toys. There is also a toilet, cooker and storage shelves

The Outreach Van visits isolated parents/carers with children under 5 and can provide Health Visitor clinics, consultation between parent/carer and workers, small play area for children, Toy Library toys and Scrapstore materials. Other agency services are able to access the van according to need. Families using the van must fulfil some of the following criteria:

• Applications by agencies such as Health Visitors, Family Support Workers, Schools, Playgroups or other.

  Self applicants are considered

• Families must have a child or children under 5 years or be parents/carers-to-be
• No transport or limited transport available
• Families in rural areas where barriers or issues exist limiting access to local family support provision

The van aims to promote the self esteem of parents/carers by offering a range of appropriate individualised services.

For further information please telephone C.L.O.W.N.S. on 01643 707190