What support do parents of young children need? A user-focused study.

Health visiting practice has moved away from surveillance and screening of children to support for parents, especially those assessed as vulnerable. This paper explores parents' perspectives of factors that determine their need for support and the perceived usefulness of the support they receive. Parents of 44 children took part in small group discussions in convenient local venues or individual interviews in their homes. The early days of parenthood appeared particularly problematic for parents. Self-confidence, previous experience of caring for children and an effective social network of family and friends were seen as being essential for successful childrearing. Social isolation was highlighted as the main cause of difficulty. Establishing new social networks appeared important for many parents to learn childrearing skills and as a source of emotional support.