Help and support
Sometimes we all need some extra help and support for ourselves and our families. Therefore, knowing where to go for advice can help you in times of need. We have created some useful links where you can find further support in some key areas.
Need help from the NHS? You can find a variety of services for new parents on the NHS website:
Infant feeding
If you would like more information on breastfeeding, expressing breast milk, mixed feeding, (using breast & bottle) or formula feeding, the link below will give you helpful tips for breastfeeding as well as information around responsive feeding and the safe preparation of formula milks.
Baby blues
Over half of all new mothers will experience what is known as the “baby blues.” Symptoms of the baby blues include feeling tearful, irritable, and overwhelmed at times and can last for about 10 days after having a baby. If you continue to experience these feelings beyond this time, then please do speak to your GP or health visitor. They are there to help, and getting the right support at the right time helps not only your wellbeing but also your baby’s wellbeing and development.
PANDAS also provides support and community via their social media channels for anyone affected by postnatal depression, including partners.
For parental mental health support, you can speak to your GP or access self-referral for NHS talking therapies. You can also contact Family Lives by going to their website, or message them via WhatsApp on 07441 444125 for support with parenting and family life worries.
Local offer
Your Local Offer lets you know what special educational needs and disabilities services are available for your child in your local area. You can click the button below or find your Local Offer by typing ‘find out about my Local offer’ in your search engine.
There are also some useful resources for parents of children with SEND on the Dingley’s Promise website.
Child health
The NHS has created a useful site for identifying common childhood illnesses and conditions. It provides guidance for when to seek help, and when to keep your child at home.
There are government guidelines for schools and nurseries about health protection and managing specific infectious diseases at GOV.UK. These say when children should be kept off school and when they shouldn’t.
School-readiness
You might have come across the term ‘school-readiness’ — this means helping to ensure your child is prepared for school by helping them develop a range of skills beyond academic skills. It includes social, emotional, and practical skills that support them to have a smooth and positive start to school life. A child’s overall good health and wellbeing are crucial for their ability to learn and thrive in school, and are important factors in their ability to attend, engage, and succeed.
This booklet helps you prepare your child at home:
Visit your Family Hub
A Family Hub is a centre that provides integrated services to support families and young people 0-19 years. They will have practical sessions as well as advice and information from professionals. Social connections and support from other parents and carers at the hubs can play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being for both you and your child, and can also help you build a local network of friendship and support.
The Best Start in Life parent hub
The Best start in life parent hub is a government initiative with trusted information and support throughout your child’s early years – from pregnancy and beyond.
Domestic abuse
Every situation is unique, but there are common signs that often appear in abusive relationships. Recognising these can be an important first step toward preventing and stopping the abuse. Click the button below to find a list which may help you identify if you are in an abusive relationship.
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is open 24/7 for free and confidential advice.
Telephone: 0808 2000 247.
Galop offer emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people experiencing domestic abuse, hate crime and sexual violence. You can reach them on 0800 999 5428 or visit their website below.
