Online service helps new parents

THE Surf Coast Shire council has launched online support group for first-time parents to support them during lockdown.

The First-Time Parent Groups puts new parents in contact with the council’s Maternal and Child Health facilitators through Zoom and WhatsApp.

Cr David Bell said the facilitators had plenty of knowledge they could still impart despite the unique circumstances.

“Becoming a parent can be quite daunting for many people and sometimes it can be an isolating experience.

“These groups have been running for many years now and people always tell us how important they are.

“They provide much-needed help and guidance to new parents by connecting them with others going through the same experience. So many long-term friendships are formed though them.”

The first online session was held last week, with nine participants joining in.

The council states there have been further requests to join since then.

People can learn more about the services available to families by heading to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/Community/Families-and-children.