Sarah Champion MP visits vital programme for vulnerable young mums to mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Today, Sarah Champion MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, visited the Family Nurse Partnership team at Rotherham Community Health Centre as part of her campaign to recognise International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Talking about the visit, Sarah Champion MP said:

It is appropriate now more than ever to recognise the importance of services for vulnerable women and girls.

The Family Nurse Partnership supports young mums including victims of violence and exploitation to rebuild their lives and determine both their own future and the future of their babies. I was immensely proud to hear of the incredible work the FNP team does with young women in Rotherham some of whom have survived incredibly tough experiences at very young ages.

Violence against women and girls is not inevitable; prevention is possible. The Family Nurse Partnership is the perfect example of a service that can help to prevent future violence and exploitation, by teaching healthy relationships and ensuring the women are confident in their own abilities and self-worth.

Karen Clithero, Family Nurse Supervisor in Rotherham, said:

Providing support to these young women early in their pregnancy is key to ensuring they become happy, healthy, confident and successful parents.

Some of the women who use our services have experienced domestic violence, abusive relationships and sexual exploitation in the past. Knowing that there are family nurses available to offer personal support can help them to feel confident in making future choices for their family.

Our work directly impacts on the children of the women we support and can prevent future problems before they arise.

NewsAlexander Guest