Pregnancy and parenting support

Parenting can be one of the hardest jobs there is and we may all find at times that we need some extra help and support. Relationships can often change when we become parents or step-parents.

Parenting and relationship support

Less sleep, less time for each other and less time to talk can all place added strains on parents. External pressures such as the coronavirus pandemic and increases in the cost of living can all add to this strain.

Support is available for you by emailing our Children and Family Support Service, [email protected]. You are not alone and our children's centres can offer help and guide you along the way.

The Children's Trust directs you to courses to help support your relationship with a partner as you begin your pregnancy journey: 

• Parental relationship support
• Parenting support programmes

Parenting skills support

Maybe you are feeling a bit unsure of all the things you need to do and prepare for so to take care of your baby. Getting in touch with the experts is a huge help, they can offer guidance, support and advice about pregnancy and parenting skills.

Flourishing Babies

Flourishing Babies offers pregnancy support and a baby care skills programme for pregnant and new mums, and parents to be who are struggling with low mood and mental health related difficulties, including support for social isolation, bonding and attachment, as well as post-birth anxiety and depression.

The aims of the service are to:

• increase parents’ self-confidence
• improve the mental health and wellbeing of new parents
• support infant mental health and development
• support a positive relationship between parents and their baby
• reduce social isolation
• provide emotional and practical support to families during pregnancy and until the child is two

Strong Start

Strong Start is a local service, staffed by skilled early years’ professionals, that gives advice and support to pregnant mums, families with babies and young children in key areas of development. The team works closely with health and children's services and also supports any parent who contacts them. They provide virtual support to parents through telephone, Zoom and social media on a 1:1 and group basis, as well as face-to-face groups in outdoor spaces and community venues.

They offer:

• baby massage, play and singing activities (and many more)
• post vitamins to families in need
• lend out packs of reusable cloth nappies
• lots of YouTube videos which explain how to look after yourself and your family

Last updated 30 March 2023