New Parents in Cornwall? Here’s the Video You Didn’t Know You Needed This Mother’s Day

Support from bump to baby and beyond – all in one place

As Mother’s Day approaches, a new video has been released to raise awareness of the support available for new mums and dads in Cornwall.

Running just over three minutes, the video gives a simple overview of Cornwall’s Start for Life programme – a service offering trusted advice and practical help from pregnancy until your child turns two.

Visit the Start For Life webpage at www.cornwall.gov.uk/startforlife to explore the full offer.

Support from Day One

The Start for Life programme begins during pregnancy, with support through maternity services and a wide range of additional services. These include:

• Scans, screening and vaccinations

• Help choosing a place to give birth

• Mental health and wellbeing support

• Advice on physical health and staying active

Jodie Pethick, Senior Manager for Start for Life at Cornwall Council, said:
“Having a baby is a life-changing experience and every family wants to give their child the best start in life. But we know that sometimes that journey as a parent can be tricky to navigate, for lots of different reasons.”

Ongoing Help from Health Visitors

Support doesn’t stop after birth. The health visiting team steps in from late pregnancy and continues regular visits after your baby arrives. They offer help with:

• Infant feeding and nutrition

• Health and development checks

• Safety guidance

• Parenting tips

• Building positive relationships

• Mental health advice

Jodie added:
“If you’re a new parent or are expecting the arrival of a little one I would strongly recommend checking out our Start for Life webpages and new video to find out what help and support is available to you.”

Local Services and Specialist Support

Parents can also access wider support through Cornwall’s Family Hubs, which provide:

• Activities for parents and children

• A meeting space for parents and professionals

• Parenting courses

Other available services include:

• Help to quit smoking and live healthier

• Food bank support

• Housing, financial and benefit advice

• Voluntary and charity support

• Help for families facing domestic abuse, drug or alcohol issues, or serious mental health challenges

Jodie said:
“Remember, you’re never alone on your parenting journey. No matter what you’re facing there’s always help available.”

Visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/startforlife to learn more.