Relationships play a fundamental role in the wellbeing of every baby, child and young person. Healthy relationships are the foundation of family life supporting health, wellbeing and providing a basis for all future relationships.

We want all parents, carers and children in York to be able to build positive, healthy and trusting relationships.

We want to support families to understand their behaviours, to identify causes of conflict and to improve the way in which they communicate so that they address challenges in a more constructive, mutually respectful way.

Healthy relationships are important for yours and your babies’, children and young people’s development and wellbeing.

All relationships have tricky moments, it's how they’re experienced and resolved that matters.

There are many factors that can affect a relationship such as money, sex, parenting, housing, employment and a new baby. It can sometimes seem difficult to support each other during these times but it's best to reach out to someone and talk about how you're feeling.

If you're worried about your relationship, try, and talk about it. You can speak to a friend or family member, but you can also talk to your healthcare professional.

Conflicts between parents

Some conflict between parents is a normal part of relationships. However, there is strong evidence to show that parental conflict, which is frequent, intense, and poorly resolved puts children’s mental health and long-term outcomes at risk.

If you're worried about conflict within your home please speak to someone about this.

You can find resources on our Raise York website or search the Family Service Directory for services who can support with relationship breakdown.

Alternatively, you can contact MASH on telephone: 01904 551900 or email: [email protected] should you have a safeguarding concern.

Child Contact

There are services to support and offer advice and information to help families maintain contact with their children or grandchildren.

Search the Family Services Directory for services who can support with child contact.

Where to go for more information and support

See more information about feelings, relationships and pregnancy and relationships after having a baby from the NHS.

You can also read more about what makes a good relationship on our website.

Independent Domestic Abuse Service (IDAS) is the largest specialist charity in Yorkshire supporting anyone experiencing or affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence.

Dad pad is the essential guide for new dads, developed with the NHS. There is a free app available or a wipe-clean page book to purchase.

In addition, the Institute of health visitors has useful tips on parenting and relationships and sex intimacy.