Family information available through new technology

Family Information Service QR code

Shropshire Council’s Family Information Service (FIS) is trialling new technology to offer another way for parents and carers to gain quality information, advice and support.

The FIS is piloting the use of Quick Recognition (QR) codes which can be scanned by almost any smartphone and take people directly through to the Family Information Directory of organisations and services.

Shropshire FIS helps parents and carers make the best use of childcare and children’s services, locally and nationally.  The service provides information and advice on many aspects of family life, including things to do and places to go, healthy eating, staying safe, childcare and support for parents of children with disabilities.

The codes have been made available to parents and carers through primary schools, children’s centres and libraries.

Councillor Ann Hartley, Cabinet member for health and well-being, said:

“We are continually working to expand the ways that parents and carers can find information, advice and support.  As part of this we are keen to explore new technologies.

“The Family Information Service provides free, impartial information on options and possibilities that might otherwise remain unknown and therefore inaccessible to families, to ensure they have the opportunity to learn about, and benefit from the facilities available to them.

“By using QR codes we can add to the variety of channels through which the service is already available, which includes a telephone helpline, text service, face-to-face meetings, Facebook and twitter, and offer further help to parents who prefer to use the Internet through their smartphones to gather information.”

The trial will run until the end of August, when the project will be evaluated.

For further information call the FIS on 01743 254400 or go to www.shropshirefamilyinfo.co.uk