Maternal Mental Health Services: Progress Report

This report from the Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA) maps the progress of Maternal Mental Health Services (MMHS) across England. It offers an in-depth look at how these services are being delivered locally, highlights improvements, and identifies gaps in care.

This report highlights some key findings:

• 41 out of 46 MMHS in England responded to the MMHA's survey
• Just 11/41 MMHS that responded 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.
• 1 MMHS has already closed due to funding issues.
• Waiting times for assessment ranged from 0-26 weeks and, for those who met the criteria, waiting times for treatment ranged from 0-52 weeks.
• Inconsistencies uncovered suggest there are currently not enough resources to meet demand, with women, babies, and families suffering as a result.

Published by the Maternal Mental Health Alliance.