Learning to be a parent
You can get support from different services to help you during pregnancy and as a new parent. This can include:
Activities and Local Support
- activities at The Journey (see the Journey programme for more information)
- help finding local activities and groups that support you as a parent. We can do this by speaking with Early Help
- your PA can visit groups or venues with you so you can see what they are like before you go on your own
Health Services for Young Parents
Health services can offer extra support, including:
- early antenatal care
- health checks
- referrals to other services if needed
Health Visiting Team
The Health Visiting Team will visit you at key stages, including:
- Antenatal visit
- New birth visit
- 4‑week visit
- 6–8‑week visit
- 3–4‑month visit
- 6‑month contact
- 9–12‑month assessment
- 2‑year assessment
Young Parents Team (Midwives, Health Visitors & Mental Health Support)
You can also get support from the Young Parents Team, who work with you from pregnancy until your child turns 2. They offer regular visits and support for:
- care‑experienced young parents (up to age 25)
- young parents who have had a previous child taken into care
The team helps you:
- improve your antenatal health
- support the health of your unborn baby
- prepare practically and emotionally for becoming a parent
- provide consistent, confident care once your baby is born
The programme covers:
- health
- child development
- relationships
- emotional wellbeing
- everyday parenting support
You will also receive information through a local service app and SMS text messages, which signpost you to further support.
You will have the chance to build a relationship with your health professional so you feel comfortable asking questions and getting the help you need. They may also link you with specialist services if needed.
You can be referred to this service after your booking appointment with your midwife.
Contact details: Telephone: 01709 423333 (Helpline open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, excluding bank holidays)
Download the TRFT - Children's Health Service App on Google Play
Download the TRFT - Children's Health Service App on the App Store
Parenting Courses and Family Hub Support
You can access parenting courses such as Solihull training, and the Family Hubs service will support you through the first 1,001 days of your child’s life. This includes clear, supportive plans developed with you to help you be the best parent you can.
Peer Support Groups
You can meet other mums and dads, share tips, and reduce isolation through:
- NCT (National Childbirth Trust) – peer support through over 300 local branches
- Netmums – a parenting website with local forums, national groups and a “Coffee House” forum for sharing experiences
- Gingerbread – support for single parents, including a helpline, local groups and an online community
