Wirral parents empowered by antenatal care that builds confidence
It’s free, accessible and local
Did you know that Wirral’s Family Hubs aren’t just community spaces for families and children, they also offer help and support for expectant mums and dads to be?
During this year’s Baby Week, we wanted to shine a light on the antenatal care that takes place across Wirral, delivered in partnership with Midwifery, 0-19 Health Visitors and Family Hubs. Baby Week aims to make the UK the best place to grow up in by celebrating services, raising awareness about the importance of early childhood, reducing barriers to access and promoting the best start in life. The theme this year is Healthy Parent, Healthy Baby.
The antenatal classes each cover a different theme, including Building Connections (delivered from various Family Hubs), Labour and Birth, and Caring for your Newborn (delivered from Arrowe Park and/or St Catherine's hospitals). These sessions give parents-to-be all the information they need and help them to create networks of support that will last long after their little ones arrive.
It’s beneficial as parents to feel empowered
You feel so welcomed and able to come along to the hub anytime you need in the future.
According to the Department for Education’s Giving every child the best start in life report, 70% of parents with children aged 0-5 say that they feel judged by others; and many report lower self-esteem, increased self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and sadness or unhappiness.
The antenatal care at Family Hubs is a way of helping parents gain confidence and feel prepared. Easing anxieties and helping them to feel less alone and overwhelmed. Families also have access to updates and the latest guidance on antenatal and infant care. Most importantly, the classes also offer an opportunity to build relationships with other parents, swapping tips and sharing stories.
It’s helpful to share thoughts and ideas with other people. I learnt lots of new information and it was all really valuable.
It’s free, accessible and local, plus a nice break from learning online
Family Hubs also offer a My Baby Club, which includes the practical aspects of caring for your new arrival. All of the sessions are held in a relaxed and informal setting and run by the Maternity Support Worker team.
They’re such a helpful, friendly and supportive team
You can find more information on antenatal care and support for you and your child in early years on the NHS website: Maternity Services | Wirral University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
You can also learn more on our Family Toolbox website: Pregnancy & Antenatal Period - Family Toolbox
