Language barriers should never prevent parents from accessing quality maternal care. Yet for many in the UK, especially in Greater Manchester, a lack of resources in their preferred language creates real challenges. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce new language options in the Anya app. With personalised, multilingual support, parents can access trusted information on pregnancy and parenting in the language they feel most comfortable with. This marks an important step in our mission to break down language barriers and make maternal care more inclusive.

The Need for Language Inclusivity in Maternal Care

Over 4 million people in the UK speak a language other than English as their primary language, according to the Office for National Statistics. For many of these families, finding reliable maternal care resources in their language adds unnecessary stress to an already demanding journey. “Is Anya available in other languages?” is one of the most common questions we hear from our users. We’re excited to answer with a resounding “Yes!”—starting with Arabic, and more languages to follow.

Providing personalised support in key languages helps parents feel more empowered. When families can connect with information that feels natural and accessible, they gain confidence in making decisions for themselves and their babies.

Ensuring Cultural and Linguistic Accuracy with Expert Partnerships

Creating accurate translations requires more than just converting words. It’s about ensuring cultural relevance and resonance with users. To make sure we got it right, we partnered with Wolfestone, a specialist in cultural and linguistic translation. They helped ensure our content is both accurate and meaningful. While some articles remain in English for now, we’re already planning to expand translations based on user and partner feedback.

Choosing the Right Languages to Serve Our Users

Choosing which languages to offer first was a thoughtful process. We considered feedback from users and healthcare professionals, UK population data, and factors like socioeconomic status and digital poverty risk. Digital poverty isn’t just about owning a smartphone—it’s also about having the skills, confidence, and connectivity to use digital tools effectively. By prioritising Arabic, Urdu, and Bengali, we’re addressing the needs of key user communities and helping to reduce digital inequalities.

Enhancing User Experience with Language-Specific Features

The Anya app now adapts to a user’s device language settings, switching to Arabic if it’s set as the device language, or English otherwise. Users can also manually choose their language from the settings menu. Currently, select features—including the core UX/UI, animation subtitles, and 12 essential articles—support multiple languages. While the AI feature and additional content remain in English, these updates represent an exciting step forward. Our user-focused approach ensures 24/7 evidence-based support tailored to each user’s preferences.

Expanding Language Offerings for Greater Access

Arabic is just the beginning. In the coming months, we’ll introduce Bengali, Farsi, and Urdu to reach more linguistic communities. This expansion aligns with our commitment to equity of access and reducing health inequalities. By continuing to invest in language accessibility, we’re working to support parents who have historically faced barriers in maternal care.

How Language Accessibility Makes a Difference for Families

Accessing resources in a familiar language provides reassurance for new and expecting parents. One Salford parent, who speaks English as a second language, shared: “Even though it lasts 30 minutes only, it gives me more information than attending other online classes that last two hours.” This feedback highlights how clear, accessible information can foster trust and confidence. At Anya, we aim to create a future where families feel connected and empowered through culturally relevant support. By meeting families’ language needs, we’re helping parents focus on what matters most—their baby’s health and happiness.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Language Support and Breaking Down Barriers

This is just the beginning. As we roll out our first multilingual features, we’re already planning to expand language offerings and translate additional resources. This will ensure Anya grows alongside our diverse user community, keeping maternal care inclusive and accessible for everyone.

Conclusion

We’re proud to share the progress we’ve made in making Anya more inclusive and accessible. With language options now in place, we’re one step closer to breaking down barriers in maternal care. We invite our users to explore these new features and share feedback as we continue this journey. Together, we can make maternal care truly universal.

The post Breaking Language Barriers in Maternal Care. appeared first on Meet Anya..

Supported by government-backed Family Hubs and Start for Life funding, this initiative aims to support parents during crucial early stages. Commencing this February, Anya will be readily available to all parents, their wider family seeking continuous support.

Anya’s 24/7 services support breastfeeding, infant feeding, and parenting, offering evidence-based information and personalised guidance. In other words, parents can now easily navigate challenges, receiving instant support and valuable tips, promoting a positive parenting experience.

Collaborating with the Family Hubs programme in Stoke-On-Trent, Anya will serve as convenient, 24/7 accessible support service for all families and healthcare professionals.

In fact, this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to creating a supportive community, leveraging government-led initiatives and innovative healthcare solutions. The partnership strives to positively impact lives, making accessible resources a reality for families in Stoke-On-Trent.

As Anya partners with Stoke-On-Trent City Council in February, local parents can anticipate enhanced, accessible support for a healthier and happier parenting journey.

More about Anya:

Anya’s Dynamic Support Model:

Anya Health spearheads an innovative approach by seamlessly merging cutting-edge AI technology with genuine healthcare specialists. This model guarantees that parents in Stoke-On-Trent receive 24/7 evidence-based expertise. Acting as a responsive guide, Anya’s AI provides instant information and personalised recommendations. Concurrently, the platform integrates the human touch, enabling users to connect with specialists for a more empathetic understanding. This fusion vividly illustrates Anya’s unwavering commitment to delivering comprehensive and accessible support.

24/7 Accessible Expertise for All:

Built on 24/7 accessibility, Anya’s hybrid model merges innovative technology and expert specialist knowledge, ensuring evidence-based expertise for every parent. Whether navigating breastfeeding, seeking infant feeding guidance, or parenting advice, Anya’s services cover diverse needs. The 24/7 availability acknowledges parenting’s unpredictability, offering a reliable lifeline. This innovative blend redefines parenting support, making expertise a constant companion for Stoke-On-Trent families and beyond.

The post Anya Partners with Stoke-On-Trent City Council To Offer 24/7 Parenting Support appeared first on Meet Anya..

As the clock ticked away, Andy delved into the day’s agenda, absorbing every detail and opportunity that Google had laid out for Anya. The first item on the list was a programme introduction and overview hosted by the Google for Startups Team, led by the dynamic duo of Magdalena Przelaskowska and Noam Feinstein. Andy found himself in a room filled with fellow innovators and entrepreneurs, all with aspirations as high as the Shard. 

The session was an immersive experience, exploring Google’s commitment to supporting startups in their journey towards excellence. As Andy listened attentively, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of the moment – the doors to a world of possibilities were swinging open, and Anya was about to take its next big leap! 

A Journey Through Knowledge: Insights from Google Experts 

The next sessions promised to be nothing short of enlightening as Susan Thomas, the Director of Google Health UK, took the stage to reveal the story of “Google in health: the story so far.” Her insights into the intersection of technology and healthcare left Andy and Dr. Chen Mao Davies with a sense of awe. 

Next up was James Matthews, Head of Revenue Strategy for Google Cloud EMEA, shedding light on “Growth in the AI Age.” His presentation was like a roadmap for Anya’s future, navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence and cloud technology with finesse. As the session concluded, we couldn’t help but feel invigorated by the immense possibilities that lay ahead. 

Nourishing Connections: Lunch and Networking 

 
With brains buzzing from the morning’s insights, Andy joined his fellow startups for a delightful lunch and networking session. It was here that Andy had the chance to connect with like-minded innovators, share ideas, and forge valuable partnerships. The synergy in the room was palpable, and Anya was finding its place in a community of trailblazers. 

Unlocking Potential: Afternoon Workshops 

With Dr. Chen Mao Davies now back from her compelling presentation, she joined Developer Andy to soak in the wealth of knowledge Google had to offer. 

The day continued with a series of workshops designed to hone the skills of future leaders. First up was a Leadership Workshop led by Greg Albrecht, an Executive Coach. His wisdom and guidance were invaluable, helping the group to sharpen their leadership skills, setting the stage for Anya’s growth. 

A Grand Welcome: Evening Reception 

Following on from the Leadership workshop, as the sun dipped below the London skyline, the formal welcome reception commenced, and Chen and Andy were joined by Anya’s wonderfully supportive Chairman, Dan Cobley. A true highlight of the day as everyone seemed to know Dan! 

Prof. Yossi Matias, VP Health AI Global Lead at Google, and Sofia Benjumea, Head of Google For Startups EMEA, warmly welcomed Andy, Dan, Chen, and the other 29 chosen organisations into the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Health. 

The reception was graced by the presence of the UK Minister for AI and Intellectual Property, Mr. Viscount Camrose, who extended his support for Anya’s mission to transform healthcare.

A Q&A session with Colin Murdoch, Chief Business Officer of Google DeepMind, offered unique insights into the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on society. 

The Unexpected Turn: A Surprise Awaits 

As the day ended, the team received a gentle reminder not to be late for the bus…  

It had been an extraordinary day filled with learning, inspiration, and connections that would undoubtedly shape the future of Anya. As the sun dipped below London’s iconic skyline, the team’s anticipation was met with a delightful twist.  

Instead of heading back to the hotel, Andy bid farewell, and Laura Bravo Priegue, Anya’s talented AI Developer, joined Dr. Chen Mao Davies for an unforgettable evening masterminded by the Google For Startups team. 

A big red London Tour bus awaited them, ready to whisk them away on an enchanting tour of London’s landmarks from Big Ben to Trafalgar Square and China Town. The journey took an unexpected turn onto the bustling streets of Tottenham Court Road, where they arrived at Tutan, an ultra-posh Chinese fusion restaurant renowned for its inventive cocktails. 

Stay tuned for our next Google For Start Ups, Growth Academy: AI for Health venture – coming soon!

In the meantime, check out our recent article on Anya’s collaborative Human and AI approach.

The post A Day at Google: Supercharging Anya’s Growth in AI for Health with Expertise and Innovation  appeared first on Meet Anya..

Written by Harriet Shuttleworth.

We are excited to share that Shel Banks, Anya’s Clinical Director, IBCLC Infant Feeding Specialist, and NHS Infant Feeding Lead, has been featured in the The Association of Breastfeeding Mothers’ summer edition magazine!

Our team, Shel Banks and Hannah Cresswell, two valued clinical members of our team at Anya, presented an insightful talk to the audience at The Association of Breastfeeding Mothers Conference in June 2023. The topic was ‘Shifting Perspectives and Navigating the Future of Breastfeeding’. Following which Shel was interviewed for the magazine. Shel’s article discussing the power of 24/7 online support is now published, and available for you to read below.

We are truly privileged to collaborate with Shel Banks, who brings with her an exceptional level of expertise and a renowned reputation in the industry.

Read the article below:

If you’d like to know more about Anya, feel free to get in touch via our contact page.

The post Anya features in ABM’s Summer Edition 2023 appeared first on Meet Anya..

We’re delighted to announce our new partnership launch with Herefordshire & Worcestershire NHS Trust is now live!

All expectant and new parents can experience all features of the unique Anya app for their pregnancy plus 3 months after the happy day. This means unlimited questions to Anya 24/7, the virtual supporter, 1,001 days of credible parenting advice and all the functions of the ground breaking LatchAid breastfeeding tool.

Visit the dedicated page for this region and download today!

The post Anya arrives to help new parents in Herefordshire & Worcestershire appeared first on Meet Anya..

This year Everyone Health was awarded funding by Knowsley Council to help improve breastfeeding rates across the region.

They explored ways that they could increase support outside of working hours. The drive was to create accessible resources to those who face barriers to attending physical support sessions and allow readily accurate information and none of the previous initiatives had involved digital solutions.

LatchAid is partnering with Breastfeeding Buddy from Everyone Health & Knowsley Council

Sara Polding, Manager in Public Health in Knowsley said, “Every person we ring has access to a phone. Phones are more capable than a phone call and are constantly evolving. We can access anything at our fingertips, one of which is apps. Something we access autonomously when and where we choose.”

After an intensive process of assuring the technology could meet requirements and align with the NICE commissioning framework, Breastfeeding Buddy Knowsley has partnered with LatchAid.

We are both excited to launch what will be an important drive into improving breastfeeding experiences across the Knowsley Council region.

The post Breastfeeding gets a boost in Knowsley appeared first on Meet Anya..

A breastfeeding app that will soon celebrate its first birthday has secured approval from local NHS services.

Lancashire NHS and HCRG Care Group have approved the leading breastfeeding and parenting app Anya LatchAid and will fund free premium access for three months for all service users.

In celebration of World Breastfeeding Week, the early parenthood support app has revealed how it increased breastfeeding rates by supporting parents across the county.

Dr Chen Mao Davies, the founder and CEO of LatchAid Ltd., said: “Traditionally, the UK has one of the worst breastfeeding rates in the world, with most women giving up before they want to.

“Breastfeeding is natural, bonding, and it gives the baby antibodies, but nobody tells you how difficult and painful it can be.

“In my own experience, I developed mastitis and thrush, the baby’s weight dropped, and I often faced long lonely nights not knowing what to do.”

The theme of this year’s World Breastfeeding Week, marked annually in the first week of August, is ‘Step Up and Support’.

LatchAid has reported that amongst 271 recent survey participants, they doubled the average breastfeeding rate:

• 49 per cent are exclusively breastfeeding at 6 to 8 weeks, versus the national average of 24 per cent
• 91 per cent of users found LatchAid useful
• 88 per cent of parents would recommend the app.

The app demonstrated that breastfeeding rates increased when Anya LatchAid was used, with parents gaining access to clinical advice from a team of lactation consultants.

LatchAid Ltd. will expand its scope to the first 1,000 days of parenthood, helping families to overcome a much broader range of challenges, and will rebrand later this year to support this development.

The company’s growth over the past year has been funded and supported by Innovate UK, The Health Foundation, and NHS Improvement.

LatchAid Ltd. has closed a £1m seed funding round in February 2022, combining equity investment and innovation loans to accelerate its future development and growth.

Lancashire-based Shel Banks IBCLC, the clinical director of Anya LatchAid, said: “In the past year, we’ve seen the continued impact of the Covid pandemic on access to healthcare professionals and our breastfeeding rates.

“The need for 24/7 support for parents has never been more urgent. This year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme is ‘step up and support’, which perfectly sums up why the app exists.”

For more information, visit https://anya.health/lancashire-hcrg

The post Free breastfeeding & parenting app to be offered in Lancashire appeared first on Meet Anya..

The participating regions are South Devon & Torbay, Lancashire & South Cumbria, Bath, North East Somerset, Swindon & Wiltshire, and Gloucestershire – if you or someone you know is about to have a baby and lives in one of these regions, please ask your healthcare provider for more information about getting the app for free.

This is part of a four-month pilot project where we hope to assess the effectiveness of the app in increasing breastfeeding rates in the participating areas. Our dream is that one day soon every new parent who wants to breastfeed is prescribed this app, which can currently be purchased for £9.99 per month, for free. 

The LatchAid app uses a combination of cutting-edge 3D technology, Artificial Intelligence, virtual peer support groups, 1-1 expert consultations, and expert webinars to help women learn breastfeeding skills and provide them with personalised expertise and support in infant-feeding, infant-care, and maternal health on a 24/7 basis.

We know that LatchAid is a much needed product. We have already beta tested our product with over 1,000 people in 20 countries across six continents. Early user studies indicate that over 70% of mothers increased their breastfeeding confidence and skills in just four weeks, and over 80% of mothers and healthcare professionals said they would recommend LatchAid to friends, family and clients. Since its app store launch LatchAid has attracted over 1500 app downloads around the globe, including over 200 downloads within the first 24 hours. It reached No. 46 on the Apple App Store’s medical category, a phenomenal success as there are over 300,000 health apps available in app stores.

The UK has the worst breastfeeding rate in the world. 81% of mothers choose to breastfeed their babies; however, despite the great benefits breastfeeding offers to mothers, babies and society, the exclusive breastfeeding rate plummets from 81% to only 1% within the first six month of the baby’s life. 90% of those who stop breastfeeding in the early days do so before they want to. New mothers stop breastfeeding because of pain and health issues caused by incorrect latching and lack of appropriate support. We are passionate about changing this. We believe every mother deserves the support and empowerment to give their child the best start in life.

This project is funded through Q Exchange by the Health Foundation and NHS England and NHS Improvement.

The post New breastfeeding app to be prescribed to all new mothers in NHS regions appeared first on Meet Anya..