BABY STEPS is a programme that supports expectant parents and helps give them the tools and confidence to cope with the challenges and stresses that come with caring for a new baby.
The service was officially launched at an event at the BT headquarters in London, that was attended by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh – who is a Patron of the NSPCC.
Baby Steps will be piloted from three of the charity’s hubs.
Carl Harris, NSPCC Assistant Director for Wales hub – one of the places leading the pilot – said the evidence-based perinatal service could be a huge help to expectant parents.
Carl Harris said: “The early stages of a baby’s life can feel daunting to parents, as they face new challenges every day to give their child the best start in life.
“It is a crucial time for a child’s development and perinatal services like Baby Steps can offer enormous support to help parents through an exciting, but sometimes difficult period.
“NSPCC Cymru is proud to be leading the way in rolling out the service and supporting parents and children across Wales.
”In 2024/25, the NSPCC Helpline referred more than 3,800 children under the age of two to external agencies across the UK, including the police and social services. This accounts for almost a fifth (18%) of all referrals made by the Helpline on behalf of a child last year.
A father who contacted the service, said: “We just can’t get our baby into a routine. It’s been 8 weeks so we’re new to parenting and have different opinions, then our friends all have different advice. It’s causing major arguments and nothing’s working.”
As well as Baby Steps, the NSPCC website has a host of other information to support parents and carers and help them raise a baby safely, offering advice on how to bond with a child.
Chris Sherwood, CEO of the NSPCC, said: “It’s always such a privilege to be part of a Royal visit and we were delighted that HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh was able to join us to celebrate our Baby Steps service.
“As this new NSPCC Helpline data illustrates, raising children in the first couple of years of their lives can be an extremely difficult time for parents, and it is so important that they are able to access support.
”Our Helpline hears first hand from parents who are struggling with the pressures of a newborn, or from concerned members of the community.
“The Baby Steps service provides building blocks to help parents navigate the very first stages of a child’s life to ensure they thrive. Parents who require any support or advice, can always contact the NSPCC Helpline.”
For more information on Baby Steps and the other services offered by the charity, visit the NSPCC website or email [email protected]
