Your feedback improved maternal mental health support

News - 17 January 2024

Thanks to over 2,500 people who shared their views on the six-week check-up, we have ensured that the NHS prioritises mental health support for new parents.
health professional talking to a mother and baby

In March 2023, we published an analysis from over 2,500 new mothers and birthing parents showing that the six-week checks failed many people.

What you told us

Our analysis showed that not all GP practices complied with the requirement to provide six-week postnatal checks. Over one in ten new mothers and birthing parents said they hadn’t received the six-week check. Of those who had, a third said that their GP didn’t mention mental health during the appointment.

We called for action with key recommendations, including:

  • NHS England should consider what support and guidance it can provide for GPs.
  • Deliver Long Term Plan commitments on improving access to perinatal mental health services.

What changed as a result?

Following our analysis, NHS England approved a plan to improve the quality and safety of maternity and neonatal services.

The new plan:

  • Promised improved guidance for GPs on carrying out the six-week checks and better access to specialist community perinatal mental health services.
  • Set out plans for responsibilities for Integrated Care Boards to implement equity and equality plans for maternity and better monitor maternity care.

This will ensure a consistent approach where every mother gets the best care possible.

“We’re pleased to see that the new maternity delivery plan published today sets out improvements in line with several of our recommendations. With mental health affecting up to a third of new and expectant mums, those checks are key to assessing their wellbeing after birth.”

Louise Ansari, CEO of Healthwatch England.

Continue making a difference…

Share your feedback with us about your experiences of NHS or social care services and help us to continue to ensure NHS leaders and decision makers hear your voice to improve services.

Share your experience

You might also be interested in

Shot of a young black man looking stressed out at home

Looking after your mental health all year round

In a post-pandemic world where the cost-of-living crisis is challenging for many of us, prioritising our mental health and wellbeing is necessary.
Advice and Information
Teenage girl sitting on armchair and talking about her problems to psychologist during consultation at office

Pressures in mental health: How are people being affected?

On this World Mental Health Day, we're looking at people's recent experiences of mental health services. With GPs often acting as the front door for mental health support, we've also analysed our evidence about getting a GP referral for mental health. Read about what people told us and what this means for healthcare leaders.
Blog
Two men sit outside, one is in a wheelchair, talking on a wintery day

What is SAD, and how can you manage it?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by seasonal changes. One in twenty people in the UK are diagnosed with the condition, with men more likely to be diagnosed with SAD than women.
Advice and Information