Support for antenatal screening

Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) is the UK's only national organisation to provide impartial information and support to parents at all stages of antenatal screening and diagnosis. In the UK, all expectant parents are made aware of the antenatal screening programme. In England and Wales, over 20 000 women will then be told that their baby may not be developing as expected (Public Health England, 2021; NHS England, 2023), causing a great deal of anxiety and uncertainty in the short and longer term.

ARC offers parents an expert helpline, resources, a private forum, peer support volunteers and in-person meetings, as well as materials for extended family, friends and employers. The charity has no investment in parents' ultimate decision, and does not offer medical advice, but has a thorough overview of current standards of care and where to signpost. The aim is to listen impartially and aid individuals in gathering all the information they need to proceed in a way that is right for their values and specific circumstances during and after a pregnancy.