Giving your child the best start in life
The Start for Life pages are here to support you and your family to prepare for the arrival of your little one/s and manage the everyday joys and challenges of parenting. The site enables families to access expert information and guidance that supports the journey of raising children and about the fantastic services and activities available in your local area.
About Best Start in life
Rotherham has a key focus on supporting families to help children to have the very Best Start in Life. This includes a range of services from different organisations, located in one place and support is available for families with children aged 0 to 5. The Best Start in Life support is delivered from Family Hubs based in Childrens Centres which covers the 0-19 age range (25 with special educational needs and disabilities). We have good evidence that that the first 1001 days of a childs life (pregnancy to age 2) are critical for good development. Nurturing children during pregnancy to age two sets the scene for them to become healthy and happy children who go on to become health and happy adults.
The Best Start in Life Approach includes:
Midwifery
Midwives provide personalised support to families throughout pregnancy and labour.
Infant Feeding
Infant feeding services support parents with feeding their babies, breastfeeding support and advice on nutrition.
Early Help and Family Engagement
Every family needs a helping hand from time to time. The way we understand your needs is by sitting down with you.
Special educational needs and disabilities
Special educational needs and disability services support disabled or seriously ill babies and their families.
Find out more about special educational needs and disability services
Mental health through pregnancy and beyond
Wellbeing information, support and advice is available for families in Rotherham.
Find out more about mental health through pregnancy and beyond
Health Visiting
Health Visitors work with other Start for Life professionals after childbirth in supporting families. They are responsible for the 5 mandated child development reviews.
Further support and guidance
Tell us what you think
As the Family Hubs Best Start in Life programme grows, there will be opportunities for you and your family to volunteer, and/or influence its development.
Further information will be shared soon.