New Essex service launches to support young parents through pregnancy and up to 2 years after birth
Young parents across Essex can now access a new free peer support service after Parents 1st UK secured a grant of almost £250,000 from the 1001 Critical Days Foundation to launch Young Parents 1st UK.
Young Parents 1st UK, delivered by Parents 1st UK, is now available across Essex for expectant parents and parents aged 20 and under. The service provides one-to-one peer support, alongside Young Parents Clubs where young families can meet, build friendships and develop confidence together.
The service has been launched in response to the challenges many young parents face, including higher levels of isolation and barriers to accessing early support. Young Parents 1st UK ensures no young parent has to face these challenges alone.
One young parent said:
“I can ask questions without feeling silly. She’s there if I want to talk about anything, not just baby-related. I can be open and honest and I never feel judged.”
One example of the difference early support can make is the experience of one young mum who was referred during pregnancy at just 14. She received peer support throughout pregnancy and her baby’s first year which helped her prepare for birth, access essential baby equipment, continue breastfeeding after returning to school, receive urgent mental health support and connect with others through local groups. By the end of support the young mum felt it had given her "a reason to get out of the house."
Paula Beare, Chief Executive of Parents 1st UK, said:
“This new service will enable us to reach young parents across Essex with tailored early intervention support at a time when many are facing significant challenges, including isolation, poor mental health and limited support networks. By providing trusted one-to-one and group support, we will help young parents build confidence, strengthen relationships with their babies and access the services and opportunities they need to thrive.
We know that investing in families during the first 1,001 days can have a lasting impact on children's outcomes. We are grateful to the 1001 Critical Days Foundation for their support and shared commitment to ensuring every baby has the opportunity to flourish from the very beginning.”
Will Quince, Chief Executive of the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, said:
“Parents 1st UK understands the power of peer support. By bringing trained peer supporters alongside young parents, this grant will help families get practical, warm and non-judgemental support during pregnancy and the critical first year.
We are proud to support a service that puts relationships, trust and early help at the heart of giving babies the best start in life.”
Young Parents 1st UK is available now for expectant parents and parents aged 20 and under across the whole of Essex. Referrals for one-to-one support can be made by professionals including midwives, health visitors, Family Hubs, schools and colleges, while young parents and their families can also self-refer.
Alongside individual support, Young Parents Clubs will provide safe, welcoming spaces where young families can build friendships, develop parenting skills and reduce the isolation that many experience during early parenthood.