Easier way to mark new baby's arrival

Hayley and Richard Waddington registering their child Georgie's birth at one of Blackpool's children's centres

People can now carry out the important task at Talbot and Brunswick Children’s Centre, and Grange Park Children’s Centre.

Blackpool Better Start launched the new service so parents could see what was on offer at the children’s centres in terms of activities and support, at the same time as registering a birth.

Since its launch, 302 babies have been registered using the children’s centres and feedback from parents has been positive.

Merle Davies, director at the Centre of Early Child Development, said: “The first six weeks of a baby’s life can be very disorientating, and parents needs as much support as possible during this time.

“By offering the registration service at children’s centres, we can engage with parents early on and communicate what services and support is available to them.

“The centres are convenient, friendly and welcoming which is exactly what new parents need to feel at ease.

“We feel that by taking this service into the community, we are helping children and their families fulfil their potential.”

Availability of free parking, an easy booking procedure and friendly staff, have all been cited as contributing factors to the success and popularity of the service.

It means there are now four locations where births can be registered, with the others being the town hall and Blackpool Victoria Hospital.