More support for new parents

Published June 21 2024

Adjusting to pregnancy or a new baby can be very challenging as well as joyful for new parents.
 
More support is now available for expecting and new parents of children aged up to 5 years, with the Victorian Government increasing funding for our Family Foundations program.

This innovative, evidence-based program improves parent mental health, reduces conflict and strengthens parent/ caregiver partnerships during pregnancy and critical early childhood years.

More than 820 families have been supported through our Family Foundations (FF) program, including 353 in the past two years.

The Victorian Government’s support acknowledges the program’s outstanding results. 

Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) evaluation shows significant reductions in parent psychological distress and stress symptoms, parental conflict and aggression, children’s exposure to conflict; and increased cooperation, problem solving, and closeness in parent-child relationships for FF participants.

Comprising 10 FREE sessions, delivered by coaching specialists, FF supports new parents to strengthen their relationship and baby bond. 

It’s available online or at home. 

Call 9355 9901, email family.foundations@merrihealth.org.au or visit our website page to find out more.