What Support Will I Be Entitled to as a New Mum?

Bringing a baby into the world is a joyous and exciting time, but it can also be a time of uncertainty, especially when it comes to navigating the financial and practical support available for new mums. In the UK, there are several forms of support that you may be entitled to, ranging from financial assistance to healthcare services and antenatal care. It’s essential to be aware of what you’re entitled to so you can plan ahead and ensure that you and your baby are well-supported during this special time. In this guide, we’ll break down the various types of support available for new mums, covering everything from maternity pay to antenatal care and prenatal care services, as well as other valuable resources.

Financial Support for New Mums

One of the first things many new parents worry about is how they’ll manage financially after the baby arrives. The UK has several benefits and financial supports in place to help ease the pressure for new mums and families. Let’s explore some of the most common options:

1. Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP)

If you’re employed and expecting a baby, you may be entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP). This is the most common form of financial support for working mothers and is provided by your employer. You can receive SMP for up to 39 weeks, with the first six weeks paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings (before tax). After that, you’ll receive either £172.48 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings—whichever is lower. To qualify for SMP, you must:

• Have been continuously employed by your employer for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before your due date.
• Earn at least £123 per week before tax. It’s important to note that different companies may offer enhanced maternity pay, so be sure to check with your employer about what’s available to you.

2. Maternity Allowance

If you don’t qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay—perhaps because you’re self-employed or you haven’t worked for your employer long enough—you may be eligible for Maternity Allowance. This benefit is available to new mums who have been employed or self-employed for at least 26 weeks in the 66 weeks before their due date. Maternity Allowance is paid for up to 39 weeks and is based on your previous income. The amount you receive could be up to £172.48 per week or 90% of your average earnings, depending on your situation. To apply for Maternity Allowance, you’ll need to complete a form and submit it to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). You can find more information on the gov.uk website.

3. Child Benefit

After your baby is born, you’re entitled to receive Child Benefit to help with the cost of raising a child. This is available to most families, regardless of income, although it is means-tested for higher earners. Child Benefit currently pays £24.00 per week for your first child and £15.90 per week for each additional child. It’s important to apply for Child Benefit as soon as your baby is born, as payments can only be backdated for three months. Even if you or your partner earn over £50,000 and will have to pay some of the benefit back through a tax charge, it’s still worth claiming as it protects your National Insurance record, which affects your future State Pension.

4. Universal Credit

If your household income is low, you may be eligible for Universal Credit, which can help cover living costs. The amount you receive depends on your income, savings, and personal circumstances. Universal Credit is especially helpful if you’re not working or are working part-time and need additional support. Universal Credit is available whether you’re renting or own your home, and you can apply online via the gov.uk Universal Credit page.

Healthcare Support for New Mums

In the UK, all pregnant women and new mums are entitled to free healthcare through the NHS. This includes antenatal care, antenatal appointments, and free prescriptions and dental care for up to one year after your baby is born.

1. Free NHS Antenatal Care

Throughout your pregnancy, you’ll receive antenatal care, which includes regular checkups with your midwife or doctor to monitor your health and your baby’s development. Antenatal care appointments are free for all pregnant women under the NHS and are designed to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy. These appointments typically include:

• Blood tests and urine tests
• Ultrasound scans (usually at 12 and 20 weeks)
• Monitoring your baby’s growth and heartbeat
• Advice on staying healthy during pregnancy You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have with your healthcare provider. It’s important to attend all of your antenatal appointments to ensure both you and your baby are doing well.

2. Antenatal Classes and Education

Many NHS Trusts offer antenatal education classes to help new parents prepare for birth and caring for a newborn. These classes cover topics such as labour, breastfeeding, and newborn care. Some sessions may also include practical advice on relaxation techniques, such as antenatal yoga and prenatal yoga, which can help improve your physical and emotional well-being during pregnancy. You can often find local antenatal classes near me by contacting your hospital or health visitor.

3. Free Prescriptions and Dental Care

As a new mum, you’re entitled to free NHS prescriptions and dental care throughout your pregnancy and for 12 months after your baby is born. To claim this, you’ll need to apply for an NHS Maternity Exemption Certificate (MatEx), which you can obtain from your midwife or doctor. This certificate ensures that you won’t have to pay for any NHS prescriptions or dental treatments during your pregnancy or the postpartum period.

Practical Support for New Mums

In addition to financial and healthcare support, there are several practical resources available to new mums in the UK.

1. Health Visitor Services

After your baby is born, you’ll be assigned a health visitor—a trained nurse or midwife who specialises in child development and family health. Health visitors provide advice and support on a wide range of topics, from breastfeeding to postnatal depression. They also monitor your baby’s growth and development and can help identify any potential health concerns early on. Your health visitor will usually visit you at home shortly after your baby is born and will continue to offer support during the first few months of your baby’s life.

2. Sure Start Maternity Grant

If you’re on a low income and receiving certain benefits, you may be eligible for the Sure Start Maternity GrantThis is a one-off payment of £500 to help with the costs of having a new baby. The grant is non-repayable, meaning you won’t have to pay it back. To qualify, you must be receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Child Tax Credit. You can apply for the Sure Start Maternity Grant by completing a form available on the gov.uk website.

Postnatal Fitness and Well-being Support

Looking after your physical and mental well-being is crucial during the postpartum period. Many new mums find that gentle exercise and relaxation can help them feel more energised and confident as they adjust to motherhood.

1. Antenatal Yoga and Postnatal Fitness

While you may be focused on caring for your baby, it’s important to take time to care for yourself as well. Engaging in antenatal fitness or postnatal fitness classes, such as yoga for pregnancy, can help you regain your strength and improve your mental well-being. Many local gyms, community centres, and even online platforms offer pregnancy yoga classes and postnatal workouts tailored to new mums.

2. Antenatal Massage for Relaxation

Taking time to relax and unwind is essential for both your mental and physical recovery after giving birth. Antenatal massage or prenatal massage can help alleviate tension and stress, offering relief for sore muscles and improving circulation. Massage therapy has several pregnancy massage benefits, including reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep—something every new mum needs!

The Bottom Line: What Support Can You Expect as a New Mum?

As a new mum in the UK, there is a wealth of support available to help you adjust to life with your baby, whether you’re seeking financial assistance, healthcare, or practical advice. From antenatal care and free NHS services to maternity pay and grants, it’s essential to know your entitlements and take advantage of the resources that can make your journey into motherhood smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, the transition into motherhood is a significant one, and it’s okay to seek out help, whether through financial benefits, antenatal classes, or health visitor services. Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or midwife for guidance on the support available to you.