“I’ve learned about being a parent and that has helped a lot.” This wonderfully positive declaration came from a young father who, along with his partner, was receiving much needed support from our Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) programme. So, what is the Family Nurse Partnership programme, and how do they help young families?
Our Family Nurse Partnership programme provides extra support for young first-time mums aged 21 years and under, and dads when involved. In some situations, mums up to 24 years can receive support from the programme. The service is part of the Care Group’s 0-19 children and young people services. FNP has been a fixture in Tower Hamlets since 2007 and the service became part of the Care Group in 2019. Waltham Forest FNP joined the Care Group in 2022.
We recognise that being a young, first-time mum can be an overwhelming experience, which is why we are keen to help as many young families as possible through our FNP programmes.
Read on to learn key facts about the service.
What type of support can young mums expect from their family nurse?
A specially trained family nurse will work with mums to provide information and support in the following areas:
What else is involved?
The support is given during regular home visits or within community venues; starting in early pregnancy and continuing right up until the child is 1-2 years old. The family nurse will tailor the programme to mums’ needs.
Dads are encouraged to be involved too
Dads are encouraged to take part in FNP visits.
The following quote is from a dad: “I did not expect to be involved (in the FNP). I thought it would be more for my girlfriend’s benefit but when I turned up, she said it would help me as well. I’ve learned about being a parent and that has helped a lot.”
It’s an award-winning service
Mums can be confident that they will be provided with a quality, award-winning service. Our FNP service has been given a ‘Good’ rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
The Early Intervention Foundation reviewed 75 programmes which support parent and child interaction in the early years, the Family Nurse Partnership was one of just two programmes to achieve the highest possible 4+ rating for evidence.
To refer to the programme call the Tower Hamlets FNP team on 020 8223 8601, or the Waltham Forest FNP team on 020 4534 4132. Mums can also self-refer.
Follow the link below to learn more about the FNP programme.
