13 February 2026

Welcome

In this issue:

Guest blog: How Next Page Books are inspiring every kind of reader

Julie and Liz at the bookshop

In the Local Offer's latest guest blog we hear from Liz and Julie who run a brilliant independent bookshop based in Hitchin - Next Page Books.  They pride themselves on being an inclusive and welcoming space for all readers and invite you to join them to celebrate the 2026 National Year of Reading. 

 Read the guest blog from Next Page Books

If you feel inspired to visit the shop, don't forget to present your Herts Card, which will give you a 10% discount!

New Pathways to Volunteering and Work programme for young adults with SEN (ages 16+)

flyer for pathways to volunteering programmeThe new 'Pathways to Volunteering and Work' programme from Inclusive United is for young adults ages 16+ with SEND. Taking place in Hemel Hempstead on Mondays (starting 23 Feb), it's designed to build confidence and independence and to develop transferable skills for life and work.

  • Mondays starting 23 February
  • 12pm - 2pm
  • Grovehill Adventure Playground, Hemel Hempstead
Inclusive United also offer multisport and games sessions, inclusive futsal and wellbeing sessions.
For more information contact contact@inclusiveunited.co.uk or 07746 155110  or visit the Inclusive United website to book

'Rucksack' new course for parents of young children on the autism diagnosis pathway (ages 0-5)

"Rucksack" is a new course for parents of young children (age 0-5) who are autistic or on the autism diagnosis pathway.
This is a 6 week face-to-face course taking place at venues across Hertfordshire.  Run by the HCC Early Years Team, it aims to provide parents with essential knowledge, practical strategies and useful resources that will support both parents and children in everyday life.  This term's course is already underway but the team will be running the course again in May and June. 

"The entire session was truly amazing and packed with valuable information. Every part of it offered useful insights, and I found the discussions particularly engaging. It was a great opportunity to deepen my understanding and gain new perspectives. I appreciate the effort that went into making the session so informative and enjoyable." - parent who attended the rucksack course

To register your interest please fill in this form or for more info, email: earlyyearstraining@hertfordshire.gov.uk

HCC Services for Young People launches new youth work projects on Saturdays (ages 11-25)

Thanks to funding from the Million Hours Fund, HCC Services for Young People (SfYP) is now running youth work projects on Saturdays.Youth Zone saturday projects

The new YouthZone Saturday Projects are safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces for young people to develop new interests and life skills, and access opportunities to improve their life chances. Ten three-hour projects are running every Saturday for three 10-week terms during 2026. All young people aged 11-17 are welcome to attend – no booking or referral is necessary. Young people with SEND and care leavers can attend up to the age of 25.

Through interactive workshops and fun activities, including creative arts, music, dance and sports, qualified SfYP Youth Workers help young people improve their emotional wellbeing, identify and achieve their aspirations, make informed choices and keep themselves safe from exploitation.

There is a YouthZone Saturday Project in every district of Hertfordshire.

Find details of your nearest one:  New YouthZone Saturday Projects  No booking needed – just come along!

Children's Mental Health Awareness Week 9 - 16 February

Children’s Mental Health Week is an important time to focus on how we can help children and young people feel supported, understood, and emotionally well. Hertfordshirepromo image for Herts Hub families have access to a wide range of free mental health resources through HertsHub, the dedicated online home for children and young people’s mental health support.
HertsHub brings together self‑help tools, early help options, specialist services, and crisis support, all in one easy‑to‑navigate place for young people, parents, carers, and professionals.

Visit HertsHub for mental health support 

 Events

View all activities and courses

Lending SPACE - pop up, Royston

Tuesday 17 February, 10 - 11.30am

Pop-in and play at our Pop Up Lending SPACE in Royston. Browse and borrow sensory and SEND equipment. Enjoy a cuppa and connect with other parent/carers.

Herts Disability Sports Foundation - 1-1 cycling lessoncycling

Friday 20 February, 1pm - 2pm, Baldock

For anyone who needs support with their 2 wheel cycling.

ADD-Vance: Understanding medication options - FREE webinar

Monday 23 February, 10 - 11.30am

An online workshop for parents/carers of children with a diagnosis (or suspected diagnosis) of ADHD and/or Autism.

Easter Craft Family Day

Saturday 28 March, 1-4pm, HatfieldEaster Craft Family Fun day - flyer

An afternoon of Easter fun for the whole family.  Handmade Easter gifts & decorations, jewellery, freshly baked cakes and refreshments. Stalls and activities for children include tombola, lucky dips, games, Easter egg hunt, sweets and toys. All the money raised will be donated to SPACE Hertfordshire