We’re delighted to announce that our Community Midwifery Team, with support from County Durham Family Hubs and in partnership with County Durham Thrive and the Dolphin Centre in Darlington, has successfully expanded the provision of Aquanatal sessions across County Durham and Darlington.
Over the past year, the programme has gone from strength to strength. Venues offering sessions have increased from 2 to 6, and participation has risen dramatically - from 326 women in 2023–24 to 1,192 in 2024–25.
This growth is not only enriching the pregnancy journey for women and birthing people, but also helping to forge stronger links with local leisure services.
Many families continue to take part in community activities after birth, ensuring long-term benefits for health and wellbeing.
Aquanatal sessions cost just £3.50, with the first session free for all women and birthing people.
Positive Impact
Feedback gathered by Maternity and Neonatal Voices in Partnership (MNVP) highlights a wide range of benefits, including:
-
Improved emotional wellbeing
-
Increased fitness and mobility
-
Better quality of sleep
-
Enhanced pelvic health, posture, and reduced back pain
-
Feeling more prepared for birth
-
Opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and build friendships—helping ease the transition into parenthood
A Partnership Making a Difference
We are proud of this successful partnership and grateful to everyone involved in delivering a service that is making a real difference for women, birthing people, babies, and families across our communities.
Find out more about Aquanatal sessions at: durham.gov.uk/aquanatal