Help if you’re expecting a baby or already a parent

Becoming a parent can bring up a lot of feelings. Your Personal Advisor (PA) is there to walk alongside you, listen to what matters to you, and help things feel a bit less heavy. 

Here’s how they can support you: 

• We will provide a hamper for new parents and, £300 towards baby equipment and a 1st birthday gift for your child. 

• Cowshed will provide a first‑time parent hamper, with some of the essentials to help you get started, such as bottles. 

• Helping you understand what financial support is available, such as benefits, grants or funding, and supporting you through the application process if you want 

• Supporting you to attend antenatal appointments, classes or groups, especially if getting there or going along feels difficult. 

• Help you outline your plan around who will support you as a birthing partner or anything else you may need as part of your preparation and the journey in becoming a parent.  

• Helping you find parenting courses or groups that feel like a good fit for you, and sharing useful information such as apps or classes when you need them 

• Visiting you after your baby arrives, once you feel ready, and continuing to check in at a pace you agree together so it feels supportive, not overwhelming 

• Helping you explore childcare options and find something that suits you and your family.  

• Supporting you with housing needs, whether that’s applying for a bigger place or making sure your home feels safe and suitable for you and your baby 

• If your child is not living with you, we can support you to stay in touch or connected in ways that have been agreed. This might include helping you write letters, cards or messages, and supporting with travel costs for up to four visits each year. 

• Helping you find the right support when things feel complicated, for example around health appointments or legal processes. This might be your PA, or someone else such as an advocate they help you connect with 

• Emotional parental support from the Compass Team, who can also help you prepare for the transition into parenthood. 

“When I had my first baby, I received support from the local offer to help me afford a pram and a cot, which are really expensive”

- Aadhya, Care Leaver