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
NHS and local authority services include your GP, health visitor, child health clinics, Sure Start children's centres and the Family Information Service.
Find out about these services and the type of support they offer.
Benefits advice
Every little helps, so make sure you're getting what you're entitled to.
The Money Advice Service has lots of information on the benefits you can claim when you're pregnant or have a baby.
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 so, you will be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it to help pay for healthy food, milk and vitamins
Find out more about the scheme and how to apply.
Childcare costs
Childcare costs vary according to the type you use.
Find out about the different types of childcare and how much they cost, then see if you could be entitled to any help with paying for childcare.
To help you budget for childcare, check out the average childcare costs on the Money Helper website. Also have a look at GOV.UK to see if you're 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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