Maternal & Early Years Social Prescription Service

The Maternal and Early Years Social Prescription Service isa preventative, early-intervention programme supporting people from conception and families with children aged 0–5 years across Luton.

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The service addresses social, emotional, and physical determinants of health through personalised, non-clinical interventions, working alongside existing maternity and early years provision. This service is designed for families who may benefit from additional support alongside universal services, particularly those experiencing low to moderate needs, including:

• Emotional wellbeing or mild–moderate mental health concerns
• Lifestyle or physical health challenge
• Social isolation or reduced community engagement
• Financial, housing, or environmental pressures

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‍Areas of Support

Referrals are appropriate for individuals or families presenting with:

• Antenatal and postnatal support needs (e.g. birth preparation, infant feeding)
• Low to moderate mental health concerns
• Smoking cessation (partners/family members)
• Healthy weight, nutrition, and physical activity
• Early years developmental or behavioural concerns
• Housing or environmental issues
• Financial instability or hardship
• Long-term health conditions
• Alcohol or substance misuse
• Risk or experience of domestic abuse
• Social isolation or lack of support networks
• Bereavements

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How the Service Works

• A Link Worker completes an initial holistic assessment
• A personalised support plan is co-produced with the client
• Interventions include signposting, facilitated access, and ongoing support
• Engagement typically lasts 12–18 weeks
• Delivery methods include face-to-face, telephone, or digital support
• Progress is monitored with goal setting and regular review
• On completion, clients are either stepped down, signposted, or discharged appropriately

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Why Refer?

Early intervention through social prescribing can significantly improve outcomes for families by addressing non-clinical needs that impact health and wellbeing.

Referral & enquiries: Active.Luton@nhs.net

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Parents/Carers & Babies and Children Activity Sessions:

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Play, Bond & Thrive

Tuesdays, 10am-11am (term time only)
Leagrave Library, LU3 2NL
For non-mobile | Free drop-in sessions

Looking for a fun and enjoyable way to spend quality time with your baby?

Join our friendly group and explore a range of sensory activities, messy play experiences and opportunities for bonding in a fun, relaxed environment.

The sessions also provide an opportunity to meet other parents & carers, share experiences and support your baby's early development through play & interaction.

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Flex, Bond & Thrive

Thursdays, 11am-12pm
Marsh Farm Library, LU3 3TL
For babies aged 3-12 months | Booking essential

Looking for a fun and enjoyable way to get active while spending quality time with your baby?

Enjoy a gentle, low impact class designed to support mobility, posture and flexibility after having a baby. Take part in calming bodyweight movements, gentle mobility exercises and relaxation techniques while keeping your baby close and engaged.

It's also a great opportunity to meet other parents and carers, enjoy interactive movement together and exercise at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

How to book: Please email Active.luton@nhs.net. You will be asked to complete a short health and risk assessment before attending.

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Move, Bond & Thrive

Wednesdays,10am-11.30am (term time only)
Central Family Hub, Luton Central Library, St George's Square Luton, LU1 2NG
For children aged 6 months -5 years | Booking essential

Looking for a fun and enjoyable way to get active while spending quality time with your child?

Enjoy a gentle combination of bodyweight exercises, strength, cardio and mobility activities to help rebuild fitness, boost energy and support your overall wellbeing.

Children are encouraged to join in through movement and play, making it a fun and interactive experience for the whole family. It’s also a great opportunity to meet other parents and carers, build friendships and enjoy being active together.

How to book: Please email Active.luton@nhs.net. You will be asked to complete a short health and risk assessment before attending.

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Create, Bond & Thrive

Tuesdays, 11am-12pm (term time only)
Leagrave Library, LU3 2NL
For children aged 1-5 years | Free drop-in sessions

Looking for a fun and enjoyable way to spend quality time with your child?

Explore a range of sensory activities and age-appropriate play experiences designed to encourage curiosity, creativity and learning through play.

Carefully planned activities and resources support children's development, while giving parents and carers the opportunity to meet other local families, build friendships and enjoy watching their children explore, learn and grow.

No need to book - just drop in.