Local mums graduate from Family Nurse Partnership Programme
A group of local, young and first time mothers recently graduated from the Family Nurse Partnership programme with the Southern Health and Social Care Trust.
The mothers who signed up to the programme in 2015 also celebrated the milestone of their babies’ second birthdays at the event which is supported by both the Department of Health and the Public Health Agency and the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough.
First developed in the USA over 30 years ago, the nurse-led home visiting programme is offered to young mums aged 19 and under and their families.
The same family nurse visits the mum and her family from early pregnancy until the child’s second birthday, taking them through a range of activities and supporting them with the many issues that families can face.
Since 2012, 180 young mums in the Southern Trust have benefitted from the programme
Congratulating the graduates, Roberta Brownlee, Chair of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust said, “Being a parent is of course so rewarding but as all of us mums and dads know it isn’t always easy. We all want the best for our children and sometimes we can worry that we aren’t doing our best.
“We are delighted to have our team of Family Nurses to support our young mums to help give their babies the best start in life, giving young parents help in dealing with common insecurities, getting them to think about their future aspirations for education, training and employment and supporting them to be the best parent that they can be.
“We are extremely proud our young parents – all of their beautiful babies and toddlers are a true credit to them. Today we can really see the difference it has made and we wish them all the very best and look forward to seeing what the future holds for them.
She added, “Family Nurse Partnership is a great example of how through early intervention we can focus on the future health and wellbeing of child and mother, improve social and educational outcomes and have a positive influence on the long term outlook for families.”
Graduates from the programme were presented with a certificate of achievement and a commemorative cup.
Trusting the North Pole elves to continue making toys and presents for Christmas, the one and only Santa Claus took a break from his very busy Christmas build up to meet the children and present them with gifts.
Applications to Family Nurse Partnership should be made as early as possible in pregnancy (up to 28 weeks). Applications can be received from anyone – any Health and Social Care professional, Teachers, a family member or you can self-refer.
For further information Tel: 028 3756 4632 or Email: mairead.donnelly@southerntrust.hscni.net
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