What we do for parents

In person, online or on the phone: we provide support for parents through our antenatal and postnatal courses, website, local branches and community infrastructure, helpline... and much more.

Courses for parents

Our courses support over 100,000 parents each year.

We know how important it is for parents to find the information they need to prepare for their new life. That’s why we offer a range of courses to support you through your transition.

NCT Signature antenatal and NCT Essentials antenatal help mums- and dads-to-be work out how to approach labour, practice birthing positions and breathing, as well as parenting skills. Our postnatal courses aim to help you feel more confident and supported in your new life as a parent. All our courses provide lots of emotional support, from both the teacher and from the other parents to be in the class.

Local branch support

We currently have over 300 branches with 15,000 volunteers on hand to help with local branch and community support.

Our nationwide network of local branches has evolved to reach and support all parents and parents-to-be during their First 1,000 Days - a time of major change in their lives. This is made possible thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, who organise a wide range of social activities and events to enable local parents to meet and access support.

Information

Our website and digital support reaches over 3 million parents and parents-to-be each year.

Every new parent faces a steep learning curve. That's why we provide evidence-based information in easy-to-understand formats, via our website and social media, covering pregnancy, birth and parenting. Our helplines, courses, branch newsletters, members' e-newsletter and magazine also prove to be a valuable resource for parents.

Helpline

Our national helpline offers convenient access to specialist information and support on pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding from our highly-trained, specialist breastfeeding counsellors and antenatal teachers. Our helpline also offers postnatal support with issues such as crying, sleep and depression in the weeks after birth.

We also have a Shared Experiences Helpline for those who have had a challenging experience during their pregnancy, birth or early parenthood which enables callers to talk to a volunteer who has had a similar experience.

Nearly New Sales

The cost of kitting out a child for the first five years can run into thousands of pounds. NCT Nearly New Sales are the perfect solution. You’ll find high-quality baby and children’s clothes, toys and equipment at bargain prices, straight from their loving owners.

Bumps and Babies groups

These small, friendly, local groups give new parents and parents to be the chance to meet regularly, make new friends and grow in confidence.