A Better Start Through Maternity and Antenatal Care

Introduction

This research explores maternity and antenatal care in the A Better Start (ABS) programme. It examines how local areas improved support during pregnancy. The research aims to identify learning about strengthening early support for families. It’s intended to inform:

• funders

• policymakers

• local service leaders

Findings

The research found that improving support during pregnancy needs strong local coordination and early engagement with families. Services worked better when professionals built trusted relationships with parents. Clear referral pathways helped families get the right support at the right time.

The research found that:

• early contact improved trust and engagement with families

• joined up working reduced gaps between services

• culturally appropriate support improved access for diverse communities

• shared data helped identify families who needed extra support

• change required time, leadership and sustained focus

These findings show that early maternity support can strengthen wider early years systems.