LGBTQ+ families across New South Wales will benefit from expanded antenatal education and pregnancy support services after the NSW Government announced $250,000 in funding for a statewide program.
The one-off funding contribution will support LGBTQ+ organisation Rainbow Families to deliver culturally appropriate antenatal education and pregnancy support throughout the next three years.
NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said the funding would help create more inclusive options for expectant parents.
“Traditional antenatal classes and support groups may be intimidating for those in the LGBTQ+ community,” Minister Park said.
“By investing in a targeted LGBTQ+ program, we are expanding the education options for expectant and new parents across the state.
“It’s great to see a charity like Rainbow Families bringing LGBTQ+ families together, to help address some of the challenges all parents face in an inclusive and appropriate way.”
Rainbow Families CEO Ashley Scott welcomed the investment.
“This program reflects what LGBTQ+ families across NSW have needed for a long time – a genuinely welcoming space to learn, connect and build the peer support networks that are so vital to their health and wellbeing during pregnancy and early parenthood,” Ms Scott said.
“For the first time in NSW, Rainbow Families will be able to offer a dedicated pregnancy support group for our community.”
The program aims to ensure that LGBTQ+ families, regardless of where they live in NSW, can access information, guidance and peer support tailored to their needs during pregnancy and early parenthood.
Inclusive antenatal care plays an important role in supporting healthy pregnancies by providing access to services that recognise and address LGBTQ+ specific pregnancy and parenting pathways.
The initiative includes face-to-face and virtual antenatal education classes, along with fortnightly pregnancy support groups that will provide opportunities for participants to connect, share experiences and build support networks.
Information about the program is available through Rainbow Families.
By Sis HIGGINS
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