A supermarket chain has launched a fund to support new parents in Merseyside.

Aldi's 'Mamia New Parent Fund' will provide £100 vouchers every week for a year to help with the costs of everyday items after the birth of a new baby.

The initiative comes in response to research highlighting the financial pressures faced by new parents.

The survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of parents found the financial impact of having a child greater than anticipated.

(Image: Aldi) Half of the respondents described the experience as overwhelming, while nearly 45 per cent admitted to increased stress levels due to the added financial burden.

The most unexpected expenses for new parents included recurring purchases of nappies (17 per cent) and baby food (14 per cent), with average monthly expenses rising by £225.

The Mamia New Parent Fund builds on Aldi's commitment to providing affordable, quality products for parents through its Mamia range, which includes own-label baby food, nappies, and wipes.

This is part of Aldi's effort to assist parents in making their money stretch further.

(Image: Aldi) Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer at Aldi UK, said: "No parent ever forgets the joy of welcoming a new child, but it often also brings unexpected financial challenges.

"Even after the big-ticket purchases before the baby arrives, there are suddenly lots of new items to add to your weekly grocery list for the first time.

"As the UK’s cheapest supermarket, we’re committed to doing whatever we can to support parents in making their money go further, including through our award-winning Mamia brand.

"Our Mamia New Parent Fund is just another way that we’re supporting parents in Merseyside to help them better enjoy every moment with their new arrival."

New parents wanting to apply for the Mamia New Parent Fund should email mamiaparentfund@aldi.co.uk with a receipt showing their latest Mamia nappy purchase.

One parent will be chosen each week throughout the year to receive a £100 voucher.