Starting a family is one of the biggest single life-changing events in your life. Find out all about pregnancy and birth, childcare facilities and financial support that is available to eligible parents.
Registering a birth
How and where to register the birth of your baby.
Civil naming ceremonies
Arranging a naming ceremony for your child.
Childcare search
Search for childminders, day nurseries or play groups in your area.
Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales (CSSIW) - Inpections and Reports
Over 6,000 services are regulated and inspected by CSSIW using the regulations and national minimum standards set by the Welsh Government.
Family Information Service
Provides free advice and information on a wide range of childcare options and activities for children aged 0-10, their families and their carers.
Housing benefit and council tax reduction - new claims
Application forms for claiming housing and council tax reduction and information on documentary evidence required to support an application.
Finding housing
How to register for a council property, and what happens to your application.
Tax credits
Tax credits are payments from the government. If you're responsible for at least one child or young person who normally lives with you, you may qualify for Child Tax Credit. If you work, but earn low wages, you may qualify for Working Tax Credit.
Child Trust Fund
Child Trust Fund (CTF) is a savings and investment account for children. Children born on or after 1 September 2002 will receive a £250 voucher to start their account.
Department of Work and Pensions – Expecting a baby
Information about maternity allowance and maternity/paternity leave.
Direct.gov.uk – Having a baby
Offers advice on having a baby, from pregnancy, birth and labour, to postnatal care, work arrangements and benefits.
National Childbirth Trust
Provides a variety of useful resources for parents. Counselling and telephone support including Breastfeeding Line, Enquiry Line and Pregnancy and Birth Line.
BBC – Birth options
One important decision you need to make during pregnancy is where you will give birth. Here are some of the things to consider before reaching your decision.
NHS Direct
Antenatal health and care.