ABSTRACT
Most of the research took place in a playgroup set up to support a Somali Women’s Group. While mothers were involved in keep-fit, a sewing group, English lessons and other activities the children were cared for by other parents, friends, relatives (usually grandmothers) and staff funded by SureStart, a government initiative that aims to help children, parents and communities by addressing health, education and employment needs. This particular part of South East London is included in the SureStart programme due to the amount of poverty and unemployment in the area. The aim was to find ways of supporting the children with the help of their families.
