The rationale and philosophy underpinning the prevention program is outlined. It has a unique approach that combines several features present to varying degrees in other home-visiting programs within a well-structured framework. This includes the identification of vulnerable parents during the antenatal period, the use of generic health professionals (health visitors) in identification and intervention with families, an "active engagement" strategy, the development of specialist non-stigmatizing clinics for parents, and the creation of a consultation service for generic workers. A variety of interventions that are used to support vulnerable families are briefly described, including antenatal parenting workshops; baby massage; dedicated crying, sleeping, and feeding clinics; and clinics to help parents manage toddler behavior. Evaluation over the first 5 years of these clinics showed almost 75 percent of cases had successful outcomes, defined as achieving the goal set by the parents at the initial interview and therefore equating to a greater belief in control of their lives. 1 figure and 26 references