Abstract
The antenatal period is an ideal time to provide pregnant women and their families with focused health education. For many parents, this will be the first time they have had close and continuing contact with healthcare professionals. They are also embarking on a journey about which they may know little. As a result, most parents are receptive to information about pregnancy and childbirth, and the public health messages that help improve their health and safety. Maternity support workers are an important part of this service, as they are frequently responsible for delivering some of this education and may be tasked with organising and delivering some classes where these are offered.