The Southern Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland hosted a delegation of nurses and government officials from Latvia. The group observed the Family Nurse Partnership programme, which provides home visits to first-time mothers aged 19 and under. Support runs from early pregnancy until the child's second birthday.

Nurses in the programme offer guidance on baby care and child development. They also assist with education, training, and work opportunities for young parents. The delegation toured the Southern Trust along with three other Health and Social Care Trusts to examine delivery of the Public Health Agency-led model.

The Southern Trust began the programme in 2012. It has served over 500 young mothers in the area. Sonya Quinn, Family Nurse Partnership Lead at the Southern Trust, noted that the visitors saw daily nurse support for young parents, including practical advice and future planning.

Catherine Magennis, Lead for Breastfeeding and FNP at the Public Health Agency, stated that the programme delivers lasting benefits for young parents and children. Colm McCafferty, Director of Children and Young People and Women’s Services for the Southern Trust, said it aligns with the Trust's focus on early life support and family outcomes.

McCafferty added that the programme fosters stronger parent-child bonds, better child development, and higher participation in education, training, and employment.