This website is here to help you learn more about the Family Nurse Partnership – who we are, what we do, and how we can support you. Whether you’re a young parent, carer, or professional, we’ve included helpful resources and links to guide you.
What is the Family Nurse Partnership?
The FNP Programme is the entitlement of young people becoming parents for the first time across mainland Scotland. It’s here to support you if:
- You’re aged 19 or under at the time of your last menstrual period, or
- You’re under 26 at the time of your last menstrual period and have experience of being in care
We know that finding out you’re pregnant can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re young. You’re not alone. FNP is here to help you feel supported, confident, and ready for the journey ahead. Our goal is to help you build the knowledge, confidence, and skills to be the best parent you can be and give your baby the best possible start in life.
Who Are Family Nurses?
Family Nurses are registered nurses or midwives who’ve had extra training to support young families like yours. They’ll work closely with you during your pregnancy and after your baby is born. You’ll get to know your nurse well – they’ll be someone you can trust, talk to, and turn to when you need support.
They’re here to help you feel confident in your parenting journey, connect you with local services, and support your health, wellbeing, and goals for the future.
Why FNP Exists
Being a new parent is amazing – but it can also be tough. Babies don’t come with an instruction manual (or an off switch!). That’s why programmes like FNP were created.
FNP started over 40 years ago in the United States. It was designed to support young parents like you and has been proven to make a real difference. Research shows that families who take part in FNP experience:
- Better health during pregnancy
- Stronger early child development
- Fewer injuries and less neglect
- More confident parenting
- Fewer unplanned pregnancies
- More involvement from dads
- Better chances of employment and independence
What We Aim to Do
FNP focuses on three main goals:
- Helping you have a healthy pregnancy and birth
- Supporting your baby’s development
- Helping you plan for your future – whether that’s education, work, or something else
How We Work
FNP is based on three key ideas:
- Human Ecology Theory – how your environment and relationships shape your life
- Attachment Theory – how strong, loving bonds help babies thrive
- Self-Efficacy Theory – how believing in yourself helps you succeed
Your Family Nurse will tailor their support to your needs. They’ll also help you connect with services that can support your health, education, finances, and more.
FNP in Scotland
In Scotland, FNP is part of the Universal Health Visiting Pathway and supported by the Scottish Government. It’s based on the belief that the early years of life are crucial for lifelong health and wellbeing.
Your Family Nurse will be your named person until your child turns two, when you’ll move on to health visiting services. This means you’ll always have someone to turn to for advice and support.
What We Talk About
FNP covers six key areas to support you and your baby:
- Your Health – looking after your physical and mental wellbeing
- Your Environment – making sure your home is safe and supportive
- Your Life Journey – helping you plan for your future
- Your Role as a Parent – building your confidence and skills
- Your Relationships – supporting your connections with family and friends
- Your Services – helping you access the support you need
We’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way – helping you build a strong, healthy family and a bright future for you and your baby.
Useful Links & Resources
- NHS Forth Valley – Children & Young People’s SLT
- Recommended Reading for New Parents
- Baby First Aid: How to save a choking baby (youtube.com)
- NHS Forth Valley – Occupational Therapy for Children & Young People
- NHS Forth Valley – Children’s Motor Skills Therapy Service (MSTS)
- NHS Forth Valley – Children’s Physiotherapy
- Things to try | NHS Fife (self-help resources concerning mental health and wellbeing)
- Mental health in pregnancy and after birth (SIGN)
- Forth Valley – The Breastfeeding Network
- Healthy Start Scheme
- We’re here for you | Parent Club
- Top tips for chatting together with your child | Parent Club
- BBC Tiny Happy People | CBeebies
More useful websites and resources are available on our School Nursing and Maternity sections.
Contact
Family Nurse Partnership
Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre
Hallpark
Sauchie
FK10 3JQ
Phone: 01259 290201
Email: fv.fnp@nhs.scot
NHS Forth Valley would value your feedback on the care you have received from the FNP. Sharing your story through Care Opinion allows us to hear your voice at all levels of our organisation. Care Opinion is an anonymous website supporting people to tell us what truly matters to them in their own words. Your feedback will also help us make service improvements to meet the needs of children, young people and families.
To share your story, please click on the link below,
Or alternatively you can share your story by calling 0800 122 3135.