{
  "abstract": "Background The Best Start in Life pathway (Enhanced Continuity of Care) provides holistic, person-centred care for women in line with CORE20PLUS5 principles. The pathway complements existing midwifery and obstetric services and focuses on reducing health inequalities by supporting women with complex social needs, including those seeking asylum, recent migrants, refugees, women from ethnically marginalised groups, and those living in poverty.Methods Women were identified at booking through demographic data and offered targeted, continuous support throughout pregnancy, focusing on optimising physical and emotional wellbeing. Interventions addressed a range of needs, including physical activity, healthy eating, emotional health, infant feeding, safe sleeping, vaccinations, finances, benefits, housing, and navigating wider systems.Results Since November 2023, 284 women have been supported on the pathway: 181 from ethnically marginalised groups and 103 living in areas of deprivation. Outcomes achieved included registration with Family Hubs (38.3%), improved Outcome Star scores (100% of women made progress in at least one outcome area), access to financial support (39.2%), mental health support (20.9%), provision of baby equipment or additional education to promote safe sleep and safety (43.7%). Qualitative data from case studies further demonstrated positive impacts on women’s experiences, confidence, and engagement with services.Conclusion The Best Start in Life pathway demonstrates the effectiveness of a holistic, equity-focused approach to maternity care aligned with CORE20PLUS5 principles. By addressing wider determinants of health and providing tailored, person-centred support, the pathway has improved access to services, enhanced wellbeing, and promoted safer, more positive pregnancy experiences. These outcomes highlight the importance of integrated, person-centred models in reducing inequalities and ensuring every woman and baby has the best possible start in life.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Cramlington, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Carla Anderson"
    }
  ],
  "title": "P04-4 Holistic support for women with complex social needs: using a CORE20PLUS5 approach – the best start in life pathway",
  "uid": "8b146ae3-8801-58e6-9c82-7576d5f7a9c9"
}