Redbridge Council and NELFT NHS Foundation Trust have launched a groundbreaking service offering vital support to vulnerable families from the earliest stages of pregnancy through to one year post-birth.

The pioneering Family Help: Pre/Post-Birth Service exemplifies integrated, preventative practice aimed at reducing the number of babies taken into care. It helps parents build the confidence and capacity to care for their children safely.

The launch event, held at the Mini Explorers Centre in Ilford, was attended by the Rt. Hon. Wes Streeting MP, Member of Parliament for Ilford North, who delivered the keynote address.

Funded through the government’s Families First for Children Pathfinder programme, the service provides tailored support to some of the borough’s most vulnerable parents—many of whom have experienced trauma, domestic abuse, or mental health challenges. Some are care leavers, some are children themselves, and others may have had babies previously removed from their care.

With a vision to nurture healthy beginnings, the service offers guidance and hands-on help throughout pregnancy and the baby’s first year—making it one of the most comprehensive early intervention models in the country.

Wes Streeting MP said:

“This is exactly the kind of joined-up, compassionate support we need to see more of across the country. Redbridge is leading the way by putting families first and showing how early intervention can transform lives. I’m proud to see this service launched in my constituency and excited about the impact it will have.”

Cllr Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, said:

“This service marks a bold step forward in how we support families in Redbridge. By intervening early and working in true partnership across health and social care, we’re giving vulnerable parents the tools, confidence, and care they need to build safe, nurturing homes. It’s a preventative model we’re proud to champion—one that stands as a national exemplar of integrated support and best practice. We’re nurturing healthy beginnings by ensuring every baby gets the strongest possible start in life.”

Lisa London, Head of Universal Services 0-19 at NELFT, added: “The Pre and Post-Birth Team in Redbridge is a great example of integrated working between health and social care that has grown through two years of shared commitment and care. By bringing together professionals from both sectors, we’re able to offer vulnerable families a seamless, supportive experience from pregnancy through to the child’s first birthday.

"This joint approach delivers a service that not only responds to needs but anticipates them, ensuring children have the best possible start in life.”

Local resident Carolina Tavares, who has benefited from the service, said:

“They're here to help you become the best version of yourself and to become the best parent you can be to your children.”