Celebrating 15 Years of Family Nurse Partnership in NHS Tayside

Families, children, Family Nurses and partners came together at Baxter Park in Dundee on 29 July to celebrate 15 years of Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) in NHS Tayside.

The Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government, Jenny Gilruth MSP, joined the annual Party in the Park, where current and former FNP families enjoyed a day of activities, including arts and crafts, bubble play, BookBug sessions and therapy pets.

You can watch a video of the event on YouTube: https://youtube.com/shorts/wJrv3MrsiHA?si=HhF1VpbRotkb0KjP 

Since welcoming its first families in 2011, FNP Tayside has supported more than 2,400 young families across Angus, Dundee and Perth & Kinross. The programme provides regular support from specially trained Family Nurses to first-time young parents, from early pregnancy until their child turns two.

By building trusted relationships with families, Family Nurses help parents develop confidence, support their child's development and work towards their goals in education, employment and family life.

During the visit, the Deputy First Minister spoke with parents about their experiences of the programme and met Family Nurses, Supervisors and local leaders. She recognised the difference FNP has made for young parents and children across the region.

FNP plays an important role in giving children the best start in life. It supports families during the crucial early years and helps connect them with services and opportunities, including financial advice, education and employment support.

Across Scotland, more than 15,600 families have benefited from FNP since it was introduced in 2010, with over 10,400 completing the programme.

NHS Tayside has also led the way in expanding access to FNP. It was the first site in Scotland to fully introduce the wider eligibility criteria, offering support to all first-time mothers aged 21 and under, as well as care-experienced first-time mothers up to age 25.

The anniversary was an opportunity to thank the Family Nurses, Supervisors, partners and families who have helped shape the programme over the past 15 years. Their dedication has helped thousands of young parents build positive futures for themselves and their children.

The celebration at Baxter Park highlighted the lasting impact of early support, strong relationships and a shared commitment to helping children and families thrive.

Congratulations to all the families, Family Nurses, Supervisors and colleagues who have been part of the FNP Tayside story.