Help and support for new parents
Becoming a parent can feel overwhelming at times. Remember, your midwife and health visitor are there to help, guide and support you during the first few weeks and months.
Here are a few other sources of advice and support that may be useful.
NHS and local authority services
Find out what NHS services are available for new parents, such as how to register your baby with a GP and how health visitors can support you.
You can also find out about local authority services in your area, mum and baby groups and trusted websites and helplines.
Family hubs
Family hubs are a single place to get support, meet other families and find support services near you.
Financial support
Information on what benefits you can claim
MoneyHelper has a lot of information on the types of benefits you can claim when you're pregnant or have a baby.
Sure Start Maternity Grant
The Sure Start Maternity Grant is a one-off payment of £500 to help you with the cost of having your first baby if you get certain benefits. You may also be eligible if you're expecting twins or triplets and already have children.
Help with NHS costs
You could be eligible for help with the cost of NHS prescriptions, NHS dental check-ups and treatment, eye care and travel to receive NHS treatment.
Help to buy food, milk and vitamins
If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be eligible for the Healthy Start scheme.
If you're eligible and apply, you will be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it to help pay for healthy food and milk. You can also get free NHS Healthy Start vitamins.
Childcare costs
Find out about the different types of childcare and how much they cost.
To help you budget for childcare, check the average childcare costs on the MoneyHelper website. You can also look at GOV.UK to see whether you are entitled to help with childcare costs.
Take care of your mind
Looking after your mind is just as important as looking after your body, but it can be easily overlooked. Every Mind Matters has lots of expert advice and practical tips to help you stay on top of your mental wellbeing.
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