Becoming a new parent can be difficult at the best of times, let alone during the middle of a global pandemic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
As many support networks and services became unavailable to parents due to social distancing requirements, the role of midwives and professional help has never been more important.
Clinical manager of nursing and midwifery at the Queen Elizabeth II Family Centre Vanessa Bakker said there had been a surge in demand in recent months following the outbreak of COVID-19.
"We've seen a rise in the levels of anxiety in parents, which is understandable, and people have lost their village and their social support," she said.
"We're hoping to help them build that village by coming here."
Since the start of coronavirus restrictions in March, 185 families have come through the centre for support.
"We've been noticing there's been an increase in the number of little babies coming in, those that are less than 12 weeks, and the majority have been coming in for breastfeeding support," Ms Bakker said.
"For our team [the past few weeks] have been challenging and there has been extra cleaning and screening and everyone that comes in has their temperature checked and we've been making it a safer service."
The increase in demand for midwifery services and family support comes as the family centre in Curtin will receive fast-tracked upgrades as part of ACT coronavirus stimulus measures.
READ MORE:
The upgrades will include nine separate works at the centre, including an improved reception area and play spaces along with upgrades to consultation areas and CCTV. The projects are expected to be completed by June 30.
ACT Health Minister Rachel-Stephen Smith said the upgrades helped to keep essential support services running.
"This is really all about construction to build a stronger health system to keep the economy ticking over with screwdriver-ready projects," Ms Stephen-Smith said.
"QEII delivers an essential service to Canberra's families, providing support, advice and guidance to help families experiencing complex health and behavioural issues."
The upgrades at the centre are just some of the jobs being carried out across Canberra's health system as part of stimulus measures, including heating improvements to parts of Canberra Hospital and Centenary Hospital.
Ms Bakker said while there had been a surge in demand for support services during the pandemic, some new parents had chosen not to come in due to lockdown measures.
She said she hoped the upgrades allowed the the centre to be able to be accessed by more families. "It means that we can provide the best service and essential services to families in Canberra."