Refining guidance to help new mums in need

Refining guidance to help new mums in need A good practice guide for caring for new and expectant mothers and the people close to them has been produced by Leeds and other university partners. Funded by the NHS, the team worked with families, NHS services and community organisations to explore how services can involve and support those closest to new mothers with moderate to severe mental health difficulties because this is key to enabling the whole family to thrive. The research findings were used to compile the guide and a video for healthcare workers, setting out good practice in specialist perinatal mental health services and emphasising the need for support for those closest to the mother. The researchers say providing support to fathers is key – but services must also recognise that families can look very different, from same gender parents to multigenerational households, single parents or more than two main caregivers. Good practice includes acknowledging the mental health and wider support needs of fathers, other co-parents or partners; considering the needs of other children; being aware of cultural differences and appreciating how diverse families can be. We hope to encourage change at a national level in how we care for families. Dr Zoe Darwin, who led the project for the University of Leeds while at the School of Healthcare , said: “When a mother experiences a mental health difficulty during pregnancy or after their baby’s birth, the whole family can be affected.