[16th April 2025]
We are delighted to share that our Founder and CEO, Dr Miriam Donaghy, has been featured in the British Journal of Midwifery‘s April 2025 issue. The article highlights the innovative work of MumsAid and the therapeutic model Dr Donaghy developed to support mothers experiencing mental health challenges.
In the piece, Dr Donaghy reflects on the growing crisis in perinatal mental health care. While the need for support has increased significantly, access to services has not kept pace. She outlines how MumsAid’s biopsychosocial approach, known as the STARK© model, provides flexible and effective care tailored to the unique needs of mothers from underserved communities.
The article showcases how MumsAid’s services—specialist counselling, trauma support, peer groups, and culturally sensitive outreach—are delivering real, measurable outcomes. From our most recent internal evaluation, we found that:
93% of mothers reported a reduction in depression
87% experienced improved bonding with their baby
94% showed reduced levels of stress
100% would recommend MumsAid to others
The feature also draws attention to an independent economic analysis by Pro Bono Economics. The report revealed that even with conservative estimates, the improved quality of life for each mother supported by MumsAid’s counselling service is valued at over £10,000. These findings highlight the vital role that early, community-based mental health support plays in achieving long-term outcomes for both mothers and their children.
We are proud that MumsAid’s work is being recognised at a national level and deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers, partners and funders for making this possible.