The Department of Health and Social Care is looking for new parents’ views, particularly those who have experienced a baby loss, on what can be improved within the current mental health service to provide better support.
Responses to the Government consultation will inform a new 10-year mental health plan to level up care across the country, tackle disparities in healthcare and help clear the Covid backlog.
It will build on the NHS Long Term Plan, working towards putting mental health on a level footing with physical health.
Minister for mental health, Gillian Keegan, said, ‘It’s crucial new parents’ mental health is properly supported and our services are meeting their needs.
‘I encourage everyone, especially new mums and dads and those with lived experience of baby loss or postnatal depression to respond to our call for evidence - it’s imperative our new plan has your voice at the centre and our mental health services work for anyone who needs to access them.’
Minister for women’s health, Maria Caulfield, added, ‘Being a new mum can be overwhelming and looking after your mental health is paramount to ensuring you and your baby get the best start.
‘Supporting new and expectant mothers is a key priority for me and I encourage all women to respond to the call for evidence to make sure your views on maternal mental health care are reflected in the plan.’
- Click here for the call for evidence, which closes on 7 July.