Families in Portsmouth can access a free 24/7 app offering support with newborn care, baby feeding and growing families, thanks to a partnership between Portsmouth Council’s Start for Life, Family Hubs and the Anya App.
The Anya App offers evidence-based information and supportive guidance to parents and parents-to-be with feeding around the clock. Features include personalised parenting toolkits, breastfeeding guidance with 3D animations, online parenting groups and specialist one-to-one chat for support. Families living in PO1 to PO6 postcodes can access the premium version until their child’s second birthday.
One Portsmouth mother said: “The Anya app is like having the infant feeding team in your pocket.”
The premium version of the app also provides access to antenatal and postnatal toolkits, online drop-in sessions with International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC), a rich library of content, Anya’s award-winning AI* (Best AI in Healthcare 2024) and lots more to support the early parenting journey.
Karenza James, Infant Feeding Coordinator at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The Anya App is a fantastic additional source of support for parents in Portsmouth for every stage of their journey. Whether it’s a late-night feeding query, or reassurance on a breastfeeding technique, Anya’s features are available at any time to provide support and advice.”
The app can be downloaded from mobile app stores. Premium access is unlocked by entering your Portsmouth postcode. More details can be found on the Family Assist website.
Alongside the app, families can also access in‑person support for breast and bottle feeding through the specialist Infant Feeding Team within the Portsmouth Health Visiting Service. Weekly Infant Feeding Advice Clinics are also available at Portsmouth Family Hubs, delivered by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Further information can be found on the Portsmouth Family Hubs website.