Having a baby
Starting a family
The Family Planning Association provide support and guidance on pregnancy, contraception and sexual health. The National Childbirth Trust offers support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood. BBC Online offers advice on preparing for pregnancy, being pregnant and dealing with postnatal issues. NHS Direct Online provides guidance on fertility and maintaing good health during pregnancy.
Pregnancy complications
If you have any worries or health problems during your pregnancy, you should speak to your midwife or GP.
provides information about pregnancy complications such as miscarriage or stillbirth.
NHS Direct Online provides information about pregnancy complications such as miscarriage or stillbirth. The Miscarriage Association provides support and advice services for people who have lost a child during pregnancy. The Association for Post-Natal Illness offers support to mothers suffering from post natal illness.
Registering a birth
Every birth in England and Wales must be registered in the district in which it took place within 42 days of the birth date. Full details of how to register your baby's birth can be found on the Register Office pages of this website.
Benefits you may be entitled to:
You may be entitled to a number of benefits. The Council's registration service will discuss potential benefit entitlement with you when you register your baby's birth.
The Department for Work and Pensions site gives information on available benefits.
Direct Gov website provides information on leave entitlements for parents who are working.
Childcare
You can find out up to date information on childcare by contacting the Families Information Service.