South London Trust Enhances Maternal Mental Health Support

May 2, 2026

South London News NHS and Wellbeing Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

South London Trust enhances maternal mental health support with specialist services.

Focus on Maternal Mental Health Support

Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, observed from May 4 to May 10, 2026, is a critical period for addressing the mental wellbeing of women during pregnancy and the first year postpartum. South London and Maudsley NHS Trust is using this occasion to underscore its commitment to providing essential care. The campaign this year centres on listening to women's experiences and ensuring they feel heard and supported.

The Trust's efforts include initiatives like Maudsley Talks, launched in early 2026. Professor Carmine Pariante, a leading perinatal psychiatry expert, shared insights on the long-term impact of maternal stress and depression on both mothers and children. His work, spanning over two decades at the Maudsley Hospital and King's College London, highlights maternal wellbeing as a cornerstone of preventative mental health care.

Specialist Services for Perinatal Mental Health

The Mother and Baby Unit at Bethlem Royal Hospital remains a vital component of the Trust's maternal mental health provision. This unit offers specialised care for women experiencing severe mental health issues during pregnancy or the postpartum period, enabling them to remain with their infants when clinically appropriate. In 2025, the Trust shared the story of Tahira, who received treatment including Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) at the unit.

Further support is available through the Healing Experience of Loss and Trauma Service (Helix). Helix provides specialist therapy for women and birthing individuals in Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham, or Southwark experiencing distress following perinatal loss. The Parent and Infant Relationship Service (PAIRS), part of Lambeth CAMHS, supports expectant parents and those with children up to five years old registered with a Lambeth GP, addressing challenges in the transition to parenthood.

The Perinatal Mental Health Team offers comprehensive support for pregnant and postnatal women with severe or complex mental health needs. This team collaborates with families to ensure early identification of issues, timely treatment, and the promotion of healthier experiences throughout pregnancy and early childhood.

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION:

This report is based on official clinical data from South London and Maudsley NHS Trust.

Document: Shining a light of maternal mental health | Our blog

Source Link: https://slam.nhs.uk/blog/shining-a-light-of-maternal-mental-health-5440

Author

South London News NHS and Wellbeing Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

From the corridors of St Thomas' to pioneering local clinics, the South London News NHS & Wellbeing Desk offers comprehensive coverage of our healthcare system. Our editorial staff provide clinical updates, patient success stories, and service analysis, ensuring our readers stay connected to the medical milestones happening in their community.

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