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The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has been recognised as a leading example in Europe for the delivery of its Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) programme, following a visit by a delegation of nurses and government officials from Latvia.
The Latvian delegation travelled to observe how the Trust supports first-time mothers aged 19 and under, from early pregnancy through to their child's second birthday. Their visit included three other Health and Social Care Trusts across the north, but the Southern Trust was specifically highlighted as a model of best practice, with the programme consistently delivering high quality support since 2012. In that time, over 500 young mothers in the area have benefited from the scheme.
Partnership staff guide European visitors through key aspects
of FNP delivery.
The FNP is an evidence-based home visiting programme, led by the Public Health Agency (PHA), in which nurses provide practical guidance on baby care, child development, education, training and work opportunities, helping young and expectant parents build confidence and work towards their goals.
Sonya Quinn, Family Nurse Partnership Lead from the Southern Trust, said: "It was a pleasure to welcome our Latvian colleagues. They were able to see first-hand how our nurses support young parents every day, from practical guidance to helping them plan for the future."
Catherine Magennis, Lead for Breastfeeding and FNP at the PHA, said the programme has a proven impact beyond Northern Ireland. "The Family Nurse Partnership makes a real and lasting difference for young parents and their children. Sharing our experience helps strengthen support for families both here in Northern Ireland and internationally."
Colm McCafferty, Director of Children and Young People and Women's Services for the Southern Trust, said the programme reflects the Trust's broader values. "FNP reflects our Trust's vision of starting well in life and our commitment to a whole-life approach to supporting families. We were delighted to be able to showcase how our amazing team help young people become the very best parents they can be for their babies."
Mr McCafferty said the benefits of the programme are well established, pointing to stronger parent-child relationships, improved child development outcomes and increased participation in education, training and employment.
