EXPECTANT parents, as well as people who are planning to have a baby, will be able to get a 'full picture' of the journey to parenthood at a special event planned later this month.

The open afternoon at Jury’s Inn Oxford is organised by Oxford University Hospitals and will offer expert advice and support on topics from pre-conception to postnatal care.

There will be a variety of information stalls with a chance to chat with some of the maternity staff and ask any questions.

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Oxford University Hospitals’ Consultant Midwife Wendy Randall, who recently won a national award for improving midwives’ training, said: "It is a more significant change than any other stage of life.

“We believe we can support families better at this time if they are more informed about the services available to them.

"This event is a unique opportunity to gather in one place a full picture of all the stages to parenthood, and understand what it is available to them at each stage, from the positive pregnancy test to feeding the baby and beyond."

The event is free, and runs from 2pm to 5pm on Saturday May, 18 at Jury’s Inn Oxford.

Refreshments will be provided and people are free to drop in at any time. However, those planning to attend are advised to book their free ticket via to www.ouh.nhs.uk/maternity