10 years of family nurses transforming families' lives in Wandsworth
Our incredible FNP (Family Nurse Partnership) team gathered at the West Hill in the Park Children’s Centre in Wandsworth to commemorate a significant milestone — 10 years of delivering compassionate care and unwavering support to the community.
The event served as a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on the journey that began in February 2015 when the FNP service was first launched in the borough and continued under CLCH in 2018. This celebration not only recognised the exceptional work of the team but also honoured the profound impact they’ve made on the lives of 628 families in Wandsworth.
The room was decorated with banners, balloons, and a board showcasing photos of teams and clients whose lives had been transformed by the programme. As current and former clients, partners, and colleagues from across the division filled the room with smiles, the celebration sparked cherished memories. Among them was Jody, a young mother whose name has been changed to protect her identity said: "The Family Nurse Partnership has greatly boosted my confidence, especially since I've been managing everything on my own without family support. Knowing that I can reach out to the team whenever I need help puts my mind at ease, and I feel reassured knowing I can turn to them for anything concerning my baby or myself.”
Commissioner for Children’s Services at Wandsworth Council, Pasquale Brammer joined the celebration, taking a moment to highlight how the partnership has been integral in delivering exceptional care to vulnerable families, alongside other partners in the wider stakeholder group.
Former client Mariah Katherine, who attended the programme nine years ago while expecting her first son at the age of 18 and now has three children, spoke with gratitude and pride about the support she received, crediting the Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) with making a lasting difference in her life. "The Family Nurse Partnership was the backbone of my journey as a mother, like having an aunt away from family."
The celebration continued with shared memories, a slideshow of success stories, and a board meeting with an FNP update. After lunch, colleagues met with clients and their children and engaged in meaningful conversations, strengthening the bond between the team and the families they serve. As the event drew to a close, it was clear that the FNP team’s work is far from over. With new families reaching out for help every day, the team remains steadfast in their mission. Their legacy is built on a foundation of compassion, care, and a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of Wandsworth’s youngest generation and their families.
Marijke Russell, FNP Clinical Lead said: “What makes us unique is the deep relationship we build with each family. We do more than visit—we walk alongside them, understanding their needs and providing guidance, empathy, and the tools to help them thrive as parents. With a decade of experience in FNP—six years as a Family Nurse and four as a Clinical Lead—I’ve had the privilege of witnessing five cohorts graduate from the programme. Seeing the impact of public health messaging and safeguarding in action highlights the dedication and tenacity of nurses in delivering the Healthy Child Programme”.
Director of Operations for South West Division, Rob Guile shared: "Reaching 10 years of service is a remarkable milestone for the Family Nurse Partnership in Wandsworth. This programme has continually demonstrated its commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable mothers and families, and we are incredibly proud of the impact it has had on the community. We will persist in our unwavering commitment to supporting families, ensuring every child has the best possible start in life, and supporting individuals through their parenting journey with care and dedication.”
Pasquale Brammer, Commissioner for Children's Services at Wandsworth Council also commented, saying: “I'm so grateful to have been part of the FNP 10-year anniversary celebration. Hearing clients' stories and the profound impact of the FNP team on their lives was touching. The feedback that I’ve received about the service has been overwhelmingly positive, which is fantastic to hear. The impact of the work is being recognised not just with the clients and colleagues, but also at a national level with colleagues from the FDAC programme and form wider partners in the children’s workforce. That’s a testament to your dedication and professionalism. Your work is truly making a meaningful difference in the lives of families in our community.”
