Welcoming the new NAFIS Co-chair

Coram Family and Childcare is delighted to announce the recent appointment of Maryam Makki from Reading Borough Council as the new Co-Chair for NAFIS.

Maryam joins Paul Herbert from East Riding of Yorkshire who has been serving as Co-Chair since 2022. Maryam takes over from Anna Ellis from Buckinghamshire Council, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Anna for her dedication, hard work and leadership during her time in the role.

Both Maryam and Paul bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles, which is invaluable in guiding NAFIS forward.  Both are actively involved in their regional group meetings which provide a local platform for discussion and sharing best practice.

Paul and Maryam will share NAFIS Chair responsibilities, including chairing the quarterly steering group meetings. These sessions bring together NAFIS representatives from across the country to ensure that NAFIS remains relevant and representative, using platforms such as online webinars to keep members connected.

We asked Maryam to share a bit more about herself. Over to you, Maryam!

Maryam Makki, Reading Borough Council

“I feel genuinely honoured to have been appointed as Co-Chair of the NAFIS group alongside Paul. I know that between us we bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from different backgrounds and subject areas which I hope will prove beneficial to the NAFIS network.”

I began my journey in 2002 as an assistant information officer at the Children’s Information Centre, a local charity that managed Berkshire’s FIS services. Since 2010, I have been managing the Family Information Service, and in 2014, took on management of the SEND Local Offer. Both services are now part of Reading Borough Council, and we manage them on behalf of Brighter Futures for Children, covering everything from childcare and SEND to education.

Leading the SEND Local Offer has given me greater insight into the needs of families, children and young people. I work where possible to influence change to improve outcomes and drive even the smallest of changes to make a real difference to families’ lives.

I have been an active part of NAFIS since 2010. Reading FIS has long been a NAFIS member, benefiting from the opportunities to network and share best practices. The work of NAFIS in supporting Family Information Services throughout the country is vital, especially with continued changes in the sector. Having this network provides great support, allowing us to draw on the expertise of peers across the country. Together we can address the national agenda and work to secure better outcomes for families.

I am excited to work alongside Paul and the amazing Coram team to support NAFIS.  We look forward to engaging with everyone at our conference in November and beyond. Together, we can continue to be an effective and supportive group, making a difference for local communities through Family Information Services.

Looking ahead

Next month, we will be gathering for the annual NAFIS Conference, a fantastic event that brings the NAFIS network together. It’s a chance to discuss the latest challenges and opportunities for Family Information Services, share useful insights and creating long lasting connections.

With the expansion of early education entitlements and the challenges that some families face in accessing the support they need, the work of Family Information Services is more crucial than ever. We look forward to coming together and continuing our efforts to support families across the country.