Children's services
New guide for expectant parents launched in Walsall
Published on
A new, helpful guide for expectant parents has been launched in Walsall.
The council’s Best Start for Life booklet provides all the key information and guidance for expectant parents, starting from pregnancy, up until 2 years of age.
The booklet has been co-produced with key partners such as the NHS, and other support services, to ensure all the important information is clear for expectant parents, and easy-to-access in one place.
The booklet outlines what expectant parents can expect during their pregnancy journey, what appointments they may need to attend and key milestones of their baby’s development.
Top tips are provided on key topics such as the introduction to solid foods, healthy teeth, keeping your baby safe and well, and the booklet includes a full list of local support available in Walsall.
“ Our parents have told us it sometimes can feel like information overload when expecting, so having a resource that clearly explains the who, what, when, where and how’s all in one document is invaluable.
“The Best Start for Life booklet covers key topics parents have told us they want to know more about, and we hope the resource will alleviate some of the feelings of overwhelm.
“Printed copies will be distributed at appointments, but the information is also available on our Family Hubs website, which can be translated into multiple languages for our residents.
“If you know someone who is expecting, ask if they’ve got their booklet yet, and if not, head to the Family Hubs website as your go-to place for information. “
One parent who already received their copy of the booklet said, "This is going to be really helpful, as I have no idea at what age things happen or when I need to book appointments such as vaccinations.
"It's going to be really helpful to have the information at the touch of my hands, rather than ‘googling’ for the answers.”
You can find out more information on Walsall’s Family Hubs website.
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Notes to editor:
What are Family Hubs?
Family Hubs offer a welcoming space where families can access advice and support from a range of services. The Hubs have been set up to support families with children aged 0-19 years, or 0-24 year-olds for those children with special educational needs and disabilities.
With teams located in four locality hubs across the borough, a variety of services can be found all under one roof. These provide families with easier access to services and the right help at the right time.
Practitioners include family support practitioners, health visitors, school nurses, early help police officers, domestic abuse support practitioners, mental health support and substance misuse support.
The Council’s four Family Hubs are located at:
• North Family Hub - 275 Blakenall Lane, Blakenall, Walsall WS3 1HJ.
• West Family Hub - Ilmington House, Crescent Road, Wednesbury, WS10 8AE.
• South and Central Family Hub - Birchills Street, Walsall, WS2 8NG.
• East Family Hub - Silver Court, Walsall, WS8 6HA.
There are also an additional 10 ‘community spokes’ based in voluntary and community buildings across the borough.
To find out more information to access support from the Family hubs visit their website.
