Families with young children are invited to explore the wide range of activities, services, and support available for under-fives in Frome at a free drop-in event at the town Hall.

On Thursday, February 27, from 10am to 1pm the event showcases the activities, services and groups that families with children under five can access, from toddler groups and play spaces to statutory services such as the health visiting team.

Local childcare provider Little Discoveries will be operating a safe play space to entertain children while parents and carers browse the stalls and talk to activity providers.

Organisations attending the event include Purple Elephant, the Health Visiting Team, Young Somerset 0-5 Team, Frome Birth Talk, Somerset Early Years Alliance, SS&L Early Years, Baby Connections/Baby Link, Good Heart – Tiny Hearts, and the Public Health Nursing Team. These groups will be available to offer support and information to families with children under five.

Sue Willis, from children's charity Purple Elephant, said: “There is such a wealth of support out there for families in Frome, including free and low-cost activities, but sometimes it is difficult to get the word out.

“The under-5 network members are committed to joining together to sharing information amongst all our families to improve the lives of children throughout the area.

“Whether it is low-cost specialist holiday provision, access to the health visitors or finding out about targeted support play groups, or even help accessing those groups with your baby, this event is for you.”

Suzy Cristinacce, director of parental mental health charity Frome Birth Talk, said: "We're really pleased to be participating in this event, as it will be an opportunity for parents to find out what's on offer in Frome, as well as the details.

“For example, people sometimes think that Frome Birth's Talk's counselling is only for people who want to talk about their birthing experiences, but it's actually there for anyone who is pregnant or has had or lost a baby in the last two years. We just recognise that this is a particularly intense period of life, so people can talk about whatever is troubling them. The service is open to everyone in our area, regardless of gender."

Melody Hunter Evans, children and young people’s project officer at Frome Town Council, said: “The Frome Under 5 network is a collaboration between lots of the childcare providers, support organisations and community groups for under fives here in Frome.

“This event is an opportunity to come and find out what they all do and what is available to you as a family with young children – join us with your little ones on February 27 between 10am and 1pm at Frome Town Hall.”

No booking is required for the Live for Under 5s event; attendees can join at any time between 10am and 1pm on Thursday, February 27. Frome Town Hall is fully accessible for people who use mobility equipment, prams and buggies.