Family Nurses in Wandsworth deliver joy with baby boxes
A heart-warming and unique scheme has been launched in Wandsworth to support first-time young mothers under the age of 25 who have additional vulnerabilities. As the first borough in London to introduce baby boxes, the initiative aims to assist these vulnerable mothers by providing essential items such as nappies, clothes, blankets and other necessities.
Funded by commissioners and launched by Wandsworth Council, our Family Nurse Partnership community nurses have worked closely with the local authority and children’s centres, playing a crucial role in the rollout and distribution of the boxes. By offering expert advice to the local authority, they ensure that items such as safe sleep essentials, toys, and books comply with public health guidelines and are safe and appropriate for children's age and safety.
This initiative is designed to promote positive health outcomes for both mothers and babies, giving families a strong foundation and a nurturing start. It offers practical support, particularly for mothers from minority ethnic communities, while improving vital access to healthcare services. By addressing the immediate challenges faced by many new mothers, especially those experiencing financial or emotional hardships, the boxes foster a sense of care and support.
Judith King, Family Nurse for Wandsworth and Richmond. supported a Rosabel, aged 17 (pictured above) who is one of the first young mothers to receive a baby box. Rosabel is at college and living at home while trying to support her three-month-old son.
She said: “It did come as a shock on how much babies actually cost. Toys are quite expensive sometimes, and mainly clothes as well.”
Amy Hackett and her partner De Jean, aged 22, also received a baby box.
"It saves money so we can use that for other things, the items are compatible with the things you would need for the baby, there are useful things that we will use for her when she arrives,” said Amy.
The idea originates in Finland, where the boxes have been credited with helping the country achieve one of the world's lowest infant mortality rates. In the UK, it was first launched in Wales and Scotland, as a standard where all parents received the boxes.
“This initiative is about much more than the baby boxes. It’s about sending a message of support to new mothers who may feel overwhelmed”, said Gemma Mccann, Family Nurse for Wandsworth and Richmond.
“We want them to know that they’re not alone and that support is available and for many young mothers, these boxes represent more than just supplies—they are a symbol of encouragement and compassion during what can be a challenging time”, she added.
Kate Stock, the cabinet member for children at Wandsworth Council, said: "The first 1,000 days of a child's life are really, really critical and we recognise that some families are really struggling with the cost of living to provide some essentials in those first months of a baby's life.
"We are also conscious of the impact of child development and the need for there to be toys and books in the box so that can promote early learning and also promote bonding between the parent and the child."
As the initiative gradually rolls out, it is hoped that the scheme will be extended to other boroughs in London, reaching more households and making a meaningful difference in the lives of families across the city.
