Christmas sparkle

Young mums, dads and babies from across Norfolk get creative for Christmas

Families who receive support from the Family Nurse Partnership run by Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust (NCH&C), got out the glitter and glue at their annual Christmas craft event.

www.norfolkcommunityhealthandcare.nhs.uk

Among the activities on offer at the party, held yesterday, Monday, December 15, at the Open venue in Norwich, were Christmas bauble and calendar making, colouring in, and cake and biscuit decorating. Each family was able to take their creations home and, as an extra treat, were also given a goody bag.

Christmas sparkle

“The Christmas craft sessions are really popular and we love putting them on,” said Michelle Ackroyd, Family Nurse Partnership Supervisor. “Each year we have such a lot of fun and it’s great to see our mums, dads and children joining in.

“Everyone gets a little messy, and we get through a lot of glitter! but they all have such a good time. It’s also a good way for our families to meet each other, meet our wider team, and get in the Christmas spirit at the same time.”

The Family Nurse Partnership advises young women aged 19 and under, and their partners, who are having their first baby, about their pregnancy and how to care for themselves and their baby. It continues to work with the families until the children reach the age of two.

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The service offers tailored support to around 200 families across the county, with bases in King’s Lynn, Wymondham and Norwich.

Courtney Thompson, 17, has been involved with the service since she was pregnant with her daughter, Ava-May, now 13-months-old. She said: “I really like all the nurses and it’s like we have a friendship. I can talk to them about all kinds of things, including relationships and personal things, not just about Ava

“I’ve really enjoyed the party as there’s so much to do. It’s always nice to get out and meet other young mums too.”

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Abbey Briggs, 20, who attended the event with 19-month old Malaki, said: “It’s a really friendly service and the nurses see you regularly so you are able to form a bond.

“We have had lots of fun at the party and have been colouring in and decorating plates. It’s a really nice idea and good to meet the other family nurses and other young families.”

Anyone who is 19 or under, and less than 24 weeks pregnant with their first baby, may be able to access support, and can call the FNP team directly on 01603 428103.

Squirrels short break unit

Find out more about NCH&C’s 12 Days of Community Christmas at http://nchandc.com/12-xmas-days

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