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P35 - Breaking down boundaries and building trust: Collaborative midwifery and child health model
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P35 - Breaking down boundaries and building trust: Collaborative midwifery and child health model

Bethan Townsend, Lisa Meager, Jeanine Young Professor, Zalia Powell, Jacinta Garrett, Laura Easterbrook and Elaine Jefford Dr
Women and birth : journal of the Australian College of Midwives, Vol.39(Supplement 1), 102369
Australian College of Midwives National Conference: Shaping Tomorrow’s Midwifery (Gold Coast, Australia, 15/09/2026–17/09/2026)
09/2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wombi.2026.102369
Appears in  Recent Faculty of Health Publications

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Abstract

Background: The first 1000 days—from conception to two years of age—are critical to lifelong health and wellbeing. Social factors such as substance use, domestic violence and mental health challenges significantly increase the risk of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. Integrated midwifery and child health models of care focusing on the first 1000 days have been recognised as a potential to improve outcomes for women and families who have social complexities. Purpose: To partner with women and families experiencing social complexities to improve maternal and child health outcomes during the first 1000 days. Methods / Model of Care: An integrated midwifery and child health model was implemented to support women and families navigating significant social challenges. The model prioritised early engagement and continuity of midwifery and child health care, with a focus on improving health literacy, promoting healthier lifestyle choices and nurturing positive mother–infant relationships. Outcome and evaluation data from the implementation phase will be presented using descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis. Outcomes: By providing tailored, relationship‑based care for families experiencing social complexity, the service strengthened collaboration between midwifery, child health and child safety agencies. This enhanced engagement and improved wellbeing outcomes for women and children during the first 1000 days. Qualitative findings indicated that women felt respected, safe and supported through flexible, trauma‑informed, woman‑ and family‑centred care, which increased their confidence, health literacy and connection with services. Healthcare providers highlighted the model’s capacity to address critical service gaps and promote earlier engagement with families experiencing vulnerability. Conclusions: Midwives were central to fostering early engagement and providing relationship‑based continuity of care that enhanced continued engagement with child health, access to healthcare and improved outcomes. Overall the stakeholders viewed the integrated midwifery and child health model as acceptable, feasible and effective in supporting women and families with complex needs during the first 1000 days. Key message: Trust‑based, continuity models in the first 1000 days can strengthen engagement and improve outcomes for women and families experiencing complex vulnerabilities.

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