Supporting health visitors to better understand surrogacy

Our founder and director, Helen Prosser, was delighted to be invited to speak with health visitors in NHS Islington, following an increase in the number of parents and families they are supporting through surrogacy.

While many health visitors have experience working with a wide range of family structures, surrogacy is becoming an increasingly common and successful way to create a family. By understanding the nuances of the surrogacy journey, health visitors are better placed to offer thoughtful, informed and specific support to the families in their care.

During the session, Helen explored how families are formed through surrogacy both in the UK and internationally, and the practical and emotional considerations that can arise along the way. The discussion also covered the importance of additional counselling and professional support, including the role of local GPs, as well as access to networks such as the Donor Conception Network and other parenting groups.

Health visitors play a vital role in the aftercare and ongoing support of new families. We applaud the team at NHS Islington for taking the time to focus on this important route to parenthood and for their commitment to ensuring that every family feels understood, supported and guided.