Delivery of Perinatal Mental Health Support to Families

Connecting Mums Programme Overview:

The Connecting Mums programme consists of six carefully designed sessions, each focusing on key themes to support mothers in enhancing their mental health, building social connections, and developing coping strategies. Each session combines group discussions, practical activities, and relaxation techniques to address specific challenges faced by new mothers while creating a supportive and safe environment.

Mums Matter Programme Overview :

Mums Matter is an 8-week course designed to support mothers experiencing very poor mental health - postnatal depression (PND), anxiety, and related mental health challenges. It offers practical tools, peer support, and a safe environment for mothers to address their wellbeing. Each session is built on input from women with lived experiences and incorporates evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques, mindfulness, and self-care strategies.

Mindful Mums Peer Support Group:

Mindful Mums is an informal drop in peer space to allow mums to connect with each other, build friendships and learn how to manage either wellbeing in every day life. The group runs on a fortnightly basis through out the year.

Muslim Mums Support in Peterborough:

Co-produced, this course supports Muslim women facing challenges including anxiety, postnatal depression, and isolation. It provides a safe environment for women to connect and discuss unique issues. Facilitated by Muslim Project Workers, the course follows the structure of Connecting Mums, however in addition, also incorporates cultural and religious contexts, weekly "Asma of the week," and Quranic discussions. Topics include family dynamics, expectations, and intergenerational differences.

Dads Support in Peterborough:

Sessions to support fathers' mental health and wellbeing including out of usual working hours such as evenings and weekends. This would be group support through our co designed 'Dads Matter' workshop and check ins.

The service is primarily delivered through community-based group sessions and peer support activities designed to promote wellbeing, reduce isolation, and build resilience amongst parents during the perinatal period. The programme provides preventative and early intervention support, including facilitated group discussions, wellbeing activities, and peer networks, with participation not dependent on individuals being under a clinical mental health pathway. The service is intended to complement existing statutory and NHS provision through community-based support, peer connection, and wellbeing interventions, rather than replacing or replicating clinical healthcare services.