Do you need help? We are here for you T: 07758763908 / 0333 0900753 E: info@mums-aid.org Referral Form

Research From Maternal Mental Health Alliance Reveals Patchy Mental Health Provision

The Maternal Mental Health Alliance, a charity and network MumsAid is proud to be a part of, has published research into the current landscape of Maternal Mental Health Services (MMHS) in England. The report explored how MMHS are being delivered at a local level and has revealed some shocking data, including:

  • Only 11/41 Maternal Mental Health Services support women who have had their babies removed through care proceedings, a group at particularly high risk of developing perinatal mental health issues and dying by suicide.
  • One Maternal Mental Health Service has already closed due to funding issues. 
  • Waiting times for assessment ranged from 0-26 weeks.
  • For those who met the criteria for treatment, waiting times ranged from 0-52 weeks.

Notably, the report found that there has been welcome progress with the establishment of these services in most areas of England but also that many of these small services are struggling to cope with levels of demand. The data shows wide variation between what care is provided for women, birthing people and their families, the criteria to access this care, and waiting times for assessment and treatment in different parts of the country. The inconsistencies uncovered suggest there are currently not enough resources to meet the need, a risk highlighted by healthcare professionals.

Read more and find the full report on the Maternal Mental Health Alliance website.