Children's Centres

Child, family health and maternity services

Each Children's Centre provides a range of child, family and maternity services.

These are listed below. Children's Centres - A guide for parents, carers and families provides information about the other services that the Children's Centres offer.

Ante-natal Support

A midwife will be available at every Children's Centre at least once a week. Routine ante-natal checks can be carried out at the Children's Centres.

Workshops, group and private sessions are available to monitor your health during pregnancy, as well as the health and development of your baby.

Post-natal Support

Children's Centres will provide information, guidance and support on breastfeeding, establishing a routine and adjusting to life changes after the birth.

Visits to New Parents

Within 2 months of birth all children are visited by a health visitor. During this appointment, parents will be given information on their local Children's Centre services.

Parenting Support

Families with children under 5 will be given parenting information, advice and guidance. This can be given either at home or at a centre. This support may be individual support or support within a group.

Help with Breastfeeding

Children's Centres will provide information, guidance and support on breastfeeding. Help will be made available to those experiencing breast feeding problems.

Healthy Eating

Children's Centres will provide a range of services aimed at promoting healthy eating including practical advice on healthy eating habits, food preparation, budgeting and shopping.

Child Development Checks and Immunisations

Children's Centres will give information about routine development checks and pre-school immunisations with your health visitor.

Early Language and Communication Support

Children's Centres will provide advice and support about early communication and play development.

A play and communication worker, supported by a speech and language therapist, will provide group sessions for parents and children, drop-ins and parent workshops. They will also provide individual advice and support.

Health and Safety Advice

Children's Centres will provide information and advice on health and safety within the home and in the community.

Healthy Lifestyle Advice

All Children's Centres will provide a range of services aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles.

This will include healthy eating, smoking cessation, drug and alcohol abuse, physical health and activity, sexual health, and dealing with stress and anxiety.

A baby