The First 1001 Days Directory is a Birmingham-wide guide that brings together information on services that support parents, babies, and families from pregnancy through a child’s second birthday. This period – known as the first 1001 days – is recognised as a crucial time for a child’s emotional, physical, and mental development.
Why It Matters
Research shows that what happens during pregnancy and the first two years of life lays the foundations for a child’s future health, wellbeing, learning, and resilience. The directory helps professionals and families understand what support is available at the right time, to strengthen parent–infant relationships and improve long-term outcomes.
What the Directory Includes
The directory provides an up-to-date overview of local and national services across Birmingham, including:
- Perinatal mental health support (pregnancy and post-birth)
- Infant mental health and parent–infant relationship support
- Health visiting, children’s centres, and family hubs
- Voluntary and community sector services
- Specialist and statutory services where needs are higher
- Online resources, training, and courses for parents and professionals
How it Supports Families
Services are grouped using Birmingham’s Right Help, Right Time framework, helping professionals match families to the right level of support — from universal services available to everyone, through to targeted, specialist help for more complex needs.
Who it’s For
The directory is designed mainly for professionals working with families, but it also helps organisations work together more effectively and improves signposting so families can access support earlier.
A Living Document
The directory is reviewed and updated regularly, recognising that services evolve. It reflects a citywide commitment to early intervention, partnership working, and giving every baby the best possible start in life!
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