A showcase event celebrating the early impact of the North Locality Infant Mortality project was held last Thursday.

Just seven months into its ambitious 18-month journey, the project is already proving to be a lifeline for expectant mothers across Erdington.

Supporting Mums

Funded by the Fairer Future’s Fund and overseen by Witton Lodge Community Association, the initiative is being delivered by Spurgeons. It provides holistic support for the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of mothers during the most transformative chapter of their lives.

To celebrate its early success, Spurgeons hosted a vibrant showcase event and community baby shower at its base at Lakeside Children’s Centre. Local partners including Birmingham and Solihull NHS Trust Integrated Care Board (ICB) alongside midwives, breastfeeding support groups and pregnancy specialists were in attendance.

Formal presentations were given by Jonathan Wiggin, Head of Services at Spurgeons, Phil Johns, Chief Strategy Officer at ICB and Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Witton Lodge Community Association.

Infant Mortality Rates

“Infant mortality was identified as a key priority for the North Locality through the co-production process that Witton Lodge Community Association led last year,” said Waheed.

“Working with partners and local communities, we developed a targeted project to support high-risk pregnant women in the three Erdington wards with the highest infant mortality rates.

“The project provides one-to-one support through pregnancy support workers, helping women to reduce key risks during pregnancy. This includes encouraging early attendance at appointments, supporting women to stop smoking, helping with weight management, and providing practical financial support for essential everyday items that can make a real difference for new mothers and their babies.

“We are pleased to be working with Spurgeons to deliver this important project. As the Family Hub in Erdington, Spurgeons is well placed to continue supporting mothers and families beyond pregnancy, offering a wide range of services for children, young people and families up to the age of 19.

“The project has been supported by MMP GP Partnerships, midwives, health visitors and community groups. This joined-up approach is vital if we are to tackle infant mortality, reduce inequalities and ensure families receive the right support at the right time.”

Impressive Early Impact

The project is achieving a good level of success with its impact and reach already returning impressive numbers, such as;

• 45 individuals received Health & Wellbeing Support (including breastfeeding & morning sickness advice)

• 57 community sessions delivered including baby & antenatal groups and baby showers

• 72 individuals received Benefits & Welfare Support including advice around baby banks, food bank referrals and supplying baby essentials

• 25 individuals supported by the Safer Sleep Scheme

• 61 women now feeling more confident with their parenting skills

• 37 travel vouchers issued to support attendance to antenatal appointments

• 60 women received postnatal support to help reduce feelings of isolation and boost confidence

• 78 women have reduced stress and anxiety following support from Pregnancy Support Workers

Natalie Haymes, Community Liaison Lead and Pregnancy Support Manager for Spurgeons in Erdington, said: “By fostering a network of care that addresses everything from emotional resilience to physical health, we are not just supporting individuals we are building a fairer, healthier future for the next generation of our community.”

To find out more about the great work being delivered by Spurgeons in the local community please visit their website HERE.

For details on support activities being delivered at the Witton Lakes Eco Hub, click HERE.