Taking those first steps together

One young family in Lydd is taking those all-important first steps with support from the Family Partnership Programme.

Ellie Roxburgh wondered how she would manage with a new baby and was starting to have panic attacks.

But after speaking to her midwife about her worries, the 24-year-old new mum was referred to the Family Partnership Programme (FPP).

The programme is part of Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust’s Health Visiting Service and is designed to meet the needs of families who need extra support.

It is open to women from 28 weeks of pregnancy and their families, up to a child’s first birthday. It aims to empower parents; helping them and their family to lead a happier, healthier life.

It is available to families living in Kent who have experienced difficulties, such as poverty, mental health issues, family problems or domestic abuse. It helps parents develop positive relationships with their child and have a greater understanding of their needs, builds confidence by identifying their strengths as a parent, as well as make positive lifestyle choices.

Ellie and her partner Brad, met with Katie Yardy, Family Partnership Practice Lead during the later stages of her pregnancy and regularly during the first year of their son Elijah’s first year of life.

Ellie said: “I’ve always doubted myself. Katie helped me so much, she made me feel so much more confident in myself.”

Following a traumatic birth and a spell in the special care baby unit for baby Elijah, Katie was on hand to support Ellie and Brad with their new son in those challenging early days.

Ellie said: “She reassured me about practical things, like feeding and how to change his nappy. I tend to overthink and worry, but she said just focus on you and Elijah, which really helped.”

Katie Yardy, Family Partnership Practice Lead, said: “When I first met Ellie and Brad it was obvious they were excited about the pregnancy and wanted to be the best parents they could.

“When baby Elijah arrived, we worked together to make small changes and set goals to make bigger changes. Ellie and Brad both quit smoking, sought treatment for their mental health and made improvements to their diet and getting out for family walks everyday.

“Ellie and Brad should both be proud of the changes they have made. Elijah is a happy little boy who is developing well which reflects the loving, responsive parents they’ve become. It has been a privilege to have been involved in their journey into parenthood and I wish them well as they continue to flourish.”

Ellie said: “I don’t recognise the person I was before. I was struggling and didn’t really care about myself. I used to worry a lot and have panic attacks. Katie encouraged me to take small steps and see what I could do. I’ve changed so much for the better. She’s helped me become the mum I am today.”

Baby Elijah is now a happy young toddler, with Ellie and Brad looking forward to the next challenge of parenting – chasing around after him and baby proofing their home.

“Katie did Elijah’s one-year review. He can be a bit shy with people but Katie made him smile and feel at ease. He stood up all by himself and nearly took some steps. I was so proud of him,” said Ellie.