Developing a parent-infant relationship strategy across a council and its wider Integrated Care Board

Local authority — two-year engagement

The Challenge

Blackpool had recently established a new Parent-Infant Relationship team but lacked a guiding strategy to shape its direction and embed it within the wider system. Commissioners needed expert support to develop a strategy that could serve not just the council area but the full Integrated Care Board footprint — whilst simultaneously strengthening the clinical capacity of the newly formed team.

The opportunity to have a shared headspace with someone who has the insight and expertise in parent-infant relationships and service development — to seek clarity and confirmation that we are on the right path, making the right decisions — was so helpful.

Blackpool Council

What We Did

Held regular strategic meetings with commissioners to shape and develop the strategy
Met regularly with the Parent-Infant Relationship team to work through pathways, research, training development and referrals
Provided clinical supervision for a Clinical Psychologist within the team

What Changed

A published Parent-Infant Relationship Strategy for Blackpool, with clear priorities and actions
Strengthened clinical capacity and confidence across the team through ongoing supervision and reflective support
A national launch event to mark publication of the strategy and raise its profile

This may be relevant to you if you are

A local authority or ICB seeking to develop a parent-infant relationship strategy that works across organisational boundaries
Supporting a newly established parent-infant team that needs both clinical and strategic input
Looking to embed a parent-infant relationship focus within your Start for Life programme

If this reflects your situation, we'd welcome an initial conversation. Get in touch.

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