The service is specifically for young, first-time mothers with nurses delivering a programme tailored to each individual aiming to support them to have a heathy pregnancy; to improve their child’s health and development, and plan for their own future.

Every day is different for the team as the young mothers and fathers they work along-side have a range of needs. Some have experienced difficulties in their own upbringing and may lack in positive role models, others face homelessness, financial difficulties and poor mental and emotional health.

The team of ten consists of specially trained nurses with admin and data support, and two supervisors.

Pregnancy often presents an opportunity and motivation which our skilled family nurses are able to harness and grow; supporting families to make steps towards making sound decisions for themselves and their baby. However unsafe and abusive relationships, drug and alcohol problems present further challenges for some of the young families as they navigate pregnancy and the changes this brings.

This programme that the FNP offers suggests that the earlier in the pregnancy that the families meet with a family nurse, the better the outcomes for the child.

There is a responsibility on early identification and management of safeguarding risks, and a broader aim to help reduce the cycle of disadvantage that many of our clients and their families face.

A father who joined in the sessions said: “I like the professional opinion and advice given by my family nurse. As a dad, I feel included in the sessions and my daughter’s care.”

The service receives referrals from midwifes and GPs but families are also able to put themselves forward for support. The programme is offered within the home from early pregnancy, through infancy until the baby reaches two years old.

The offer FNP is available to all first-time mothers aged 19 or under at conception. Recent changes have meant that this has now been extended to include up to age 21 at conception for those young women who have previously been children for whom we care.

Rhiannon Griffin, FNP Supervisor, said: “As a relatively new member of the team I am thrilled to see the hard work and dedication of the team reflected within the ‘I want great care’ feedback. I am proud to work for such a hardworking team who want to continue to make positive changes to the families and mothers they support.”

One reviewer said: “When I have questions, I know I can come to you. I always knew I could talk to you at any time. My nurse was welcoming and kind from the get go. We’ve been through a lot together.”

Another service user said: ‘The nurse is amazing, so helpful and supportive, chatty and easy to open up to. I feel very lucky to receive her help and it makes me feel much more in control of my situation and my ability to cope and work with my partner.”

A final reviewer: “Because my nurse always treats me with respect and answers anything I ask and she makes the meeting fun and explains it again if I don’t understand.”

To find out more about the service click here.