There is a growing agreement that the first 1,001 days* are a critical time for development for babies, but they are also a time when babies are at their most vulnerable.
During this period babies are uniquely susceptible to their environment. Babies are completely reliant on their caregivers and later development is heavily influenced by the loving attachment babies have to their parents.
Pregnancy and having a new born baby is a time of significant change and transition in a person and families life, no matter if they are first time or experienced parents. This is often a time when people want to do the best to make positive changes to their health, wellbeing and lifestyle for the benefits of their baby and will seek out information and support.
Families who identify as needing extra support tell us they tend to fall through the gaps between services because no one takes overall responsibility for supporting them to be the best parents they can be. The Early Parenthood Service will work in partnership with families to support their journey as they prepare for and welcome their new baby.
*1, HM Government (2021). The Best Start for Life – A vision for the 1,001 Critical Days: Crown Copyright
