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Silver Birch Hubs E-Booklet (healthtechtours.uk)

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Cheshire and Merseyside Maternity Wellbeing Support

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Maternal Mental Health Service (MMHS) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Maternal Mental Health Service (Silver Birch Hub) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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This service is available in: Cheshire, Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, Warrington and Wirral.

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Fear of childbirth (tokophobia) | Tommy's (tommys.org)

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Tokophobia: how to get over extreme fear of giving birth | Pregnancy articles & support | NCT

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What is tokophobia?

Tokophobia is where women have an extreme fear of pregnancy that can lead to them avoiding childbirth altogether. The fear becomes paralysing and terrifying, and can become physically and emotionally disabling (Scollato and Lampasona, 2013).

Tokophobia or being scared of giving birth

Ask any group of pregnant women their thoughts on labour and you'll know that a fear around childbirth is understandably pretty common. But that's different to tokophobia.

About 20% to 78% of pregnant women report fears associated with the pregnancy and childbirth (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012). Yet only 13% of women report a fear that's overwhelming enough to make them postpone or avoid getting pregnant altogether (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012).

Who is likely to get tokophobia?

Fears are likely to be more common and intense in women who have never been pregnant or given birth (primary tokophobia) (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012). Women who have had previous pregnancies (secondary tokophobia) can also experience tokophobia.

Secondary tokophobia is a fear of childbirth developed after a previous traumatic labour or even a normal birth, miscarriage, stillbirth or termination of pregnancy. In a few cases, prenatal depression might be happening alongside tokophobia (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012).

Causes of tokophobia

Some reasons that people can suffer from tokophobia are:

Effects of tokophobia

The biggest effect of tokophobia is that women try to delay or avoid pregnancy, using contraception. If they do get pregnant, women might be more likely to choose an abortion or to have their baby adopted (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012). They may also opt for a caesarean section when it comes to giving birth (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012).

Treatment for tokophobia

Tokophobia can be a lot less debilitating if you have a strong support system, including partners, mothers, sisters or friends and colleagues (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012). One study reported a 50% reduction in caesarean birth rates when women received psychological and prenatal support (Sjogren and Thomassen, 1997).

Some other forms of treatment include cognitive behaviour therapy, psychotherapy and taking medication to help tackle your feelings. You could also try hypnobirthing techniques to see if that helps ease the anxiety (Bhatia and Jhanjee, 2012).

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.

Check to see if NCT have any ' Relax, stretch and breathe' or ' Yoga for pregnancy' classes in your area.

Bhatia MS, Jhanjee A. (2012) Tokophobia: A dread of pregnancy. Ind Psychiatry J. 21(2): 158-159. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24250052 [Accessed 16th March 2018].

Fisher C, Hauck Y, Fenwick J. (2006) How social context impacts on women's fears of childbirth: A Western Australian example. Soc Sci Med. (63):64-75. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16476516 [Accessed 16th March 2018].

RCOG. (2011) RCOG statement on draft NICE caesarean section guidelines. Available from: https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/news/rcog-statement-on-draft-nice-caesarean-section-guidelines/ [Accessed 16th March 2018].

Scollato A, Lampasona R. (2013) Tokophobia: When fear of childbirth prevails. Mediterranean J Clin Psychol. 1:1-18. Available from: https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/25510068.pdf [Accessed 16th March 2018].

Sjogren B, Thomassen P. (1997) Obstetric outcome in 100 women with severe anxiety over childbirth. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 76(10): 948-952. Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9435734 [Accessed 16th March 2018].

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Tokophobia: how to get over extreme fear of giving birth

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Tokophobia is where women have an extreme fear of pregnancy that can lead to them avoiding childbirth altogether. The fear becomes paralysing and terrifying, and can become physically and emotionally disabling (Scollato and Lampasona, 2013). Ask any group of pregnant women their thoughts on labour and you'll know that a fear around childbirth is understandably pretty common.

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Tokophobia (a severe fear of childbirth and being pregnant) | Emma's Diary (emmasdiary.co.uk)

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Tokophobia is an extreme fear of being pregnant and giving birth. While many women experience some anxieties about coping with pregnancy and the birth, tokophobia is when the fear becomes so severe that it dominates the woman's life: this fear can affect their ability to cope with daily life and can lead to the woman not wanting to go through childbirth, no matter how much they want to have the baby.

Which women are more likely to experience tokophobia?

In Western countries, up to 1 in 4 pregnant women have significant fears about childbirth, and as many as 10% become so anxious that it affects their daily life.

Tokophobia is more common in women who have never given birth than in those who have, and they are more likely to have a severe form of the condition.This is called 'primary tokophobia'. Tokophobia can also occur in women who have previously given birth. This is known as 'secondary tokophobia', and while it can occur after any birth, it is more common after a traumatic childbirth, miscarriage or stillbirth.Tokophobia is also more common in women who have previously had severe gynaecological problems or mental health problems such as anxiety disorder or depression, and in those who have experienced sexual abuse in childhood or rape.

Women whose female relatives are afraid of pregnancy and who have told them frightening stories about childbirth can also be affected by tokophobia. On the other hand, women with strong support networks from family, friends or colleagues are less likely to develop tokophobia and are more able to overcome it when it does occur.

Symptoms of tokophobia

Tokophobia in pregnancy can lead some women to seek a termination despite desperately wanting the baby.This can then lead to further mental health issues as they live with the impact of their decision. Other women may insist on a caesarean section, and even change Obstetrician to find one more willing to recommend the procedure. In pregnant women with tokophobia who enter labour, the severe anxiety can increase the risk of complications during the birth.

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Tokophobia (a severe fear of childbirth and being pregnant) | Emma's Diary

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Tokophobia is an extreme fear of being pregnant and giving birth. While many women experience some anxieties about coping with pregnancy and the birth, tokophobia is when the fear becomes so severe that it dominates the woman's life: this fear can affect their ability to cope with daily life and can lead to the woman not wanting to go through childbirth, no matter how much they want to have the baby.

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Numbers to Call if you are looking for Immediate Support.

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Numbers to Call if you are looking for Immediate Support.

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PANDAS (Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support):

Free Support Line 0808 196 1776 (11am - 10:00pm Mon-Sun)
Free Text Service: text PANDAS to 85258 (24hrs/7days)

Samaritans: 116 123 (24hrs/day)

Mind: 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm Mon-Fri)

NHS Choices: 111 (24hrs/7days)

SANDS: 0808 164 3332 (10am to 3pm Monday to Friday and 6pm to 9pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings).

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Directory of Services to support Women's Health & Maternity (padlet.com)

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Find your local unit

Hospitals often have a unit or ward dedicated to caring for babies who require additional support after birth, which cannot be provided on the Maternity wards.

These are often referred to in different ways such as the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), Neonatal Unit (NNU) or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

Latest News

For the latest news, please follow us on

NWNODN working in close collaboration with

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North West Neonatal Operational Delivery Network

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Find your local unit Hospitals often have a unit or ward dedicated to caring for babies who require additional support after birth, which cannot be provided on the Maternity wards.

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For babies born premature or sick | Bliss

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Our vision is that every baby born premature or sick in the UK has the best chance of survival and quality of life.

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You and your baby: Supporting love and nurture on the neonatal unit - UNICEF

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You and your baby: Supporting love and nurture on the neonatal unit - UNICEF

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Supporting parents of babies born premature or sick

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Tommy's - The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

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Tommy's - The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

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Premature (or preterm) birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. If this happens, your baby may need special care and treatment.

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The Smallest Things Premature Baby Charity

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The Smallest Things Premature Baby Charity

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We've been there too

It's impossible to know what it's like behind NICU doors unless you've walked those corridors, scrubbed your hands, heard the alarms and felt the fear of losing the most precious thing in the world to you. We get it because we've been there too. The Smallest Things is run entirely by volunteers who've had premature babies. And that's exactly what inspires us to support families, raise awareness and instigate change. We believe in a better world for families of premature babies. A world in which parents have the time they need before returning to work, without money worries; the support they need after they leave the hospital; and the reassurance that they are not alone on their journey. Because prematurity doesn't end when you leave NICU.

Founder and chair
Catriona is a paediatric occupational therapist, with nearly twenty years experience working with children, young people and families. She was chair of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section for Children and Young People (2009 - 2011) and founded the Smallest Things premature baby charity in September 2014 following the premature birth of both her sons. Having worked in NHS hospitals, including in neonatal intensive care units, for many years, Catriona now works with children and young people in the community, specialising in Special Educational Needs.

Communications director
Sarah cut her teeth as a journalist at the BBC in 2002 and now works in content marketing for global brands with a focus on health and family. As Editor of Tesco Magazine she oversaw Cancer Research UK's Race for Life magazine and ran communications workshops for CLIC Sargent. A former parent adviser for Bliss, she currently volunteers for TAMBA (Twins and Multiple Birth Association) Bereavement Support Group. Sarah gave birth to premature twins at 28 weeks and spent over six months in NICU before her youngest died from surgical complications.

Strategy director
Matt works in the public sector and has held jobs in homelessness and children's services at Birmingham City Council during his 12 years with the local authority. He is currently Head of Business Change at Core Assets, one of the UK's largest independent providers of children's services. Matt and his wife, Sally, had their daughter Isabelle at 34 weeks' gestation back in 2011 and then twin boys Harry and Sam at 25 weeks' gestation in 2015. Sadly, Sam was too fragile and passed away at 16 days old. After various fundraising events and activities raising money as #prematurerockstar for different premature baby charities, including The Smallest Things, Matt became one of our Trustees in 2018.

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Who We Are - About - The Smallest Things

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We get it because we've been there too. The Smallest Things is run entirely by volunteers who've had premature babies. And that's exactly what inspires us to support families, raise awareness and instigate change. We believe in a better world for families of premature babies.

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A stay in neonatal care - An animated guide

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A stay in neonatal care - An animated guide

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A stay in neonatal care - An animated guide

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NHS
Special care: ill or premature babies - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Bliss
www.bliss.org.uk

Tommy's
Support for you and your premature baby at home | Tommy's (tommys.org)

Everything you need to know about Premature Babies (premature-babies.co.uk)

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Neonatal care in hospital

Special care for babies is sometimes provided on the ordinary postnatal ward and sometimes in a specialist newborn (neonatal) area.

Having a baby in neonatal care can be worrying, but the staff looking after your baby should make sure you receive all the information, communication and support you need.

Not all hospitals provide specialist neonatal services, so your baby may be transferred to another hospital if they need special care.

Why babies need special care

Your baby could be admitted to neonatal care for a number of reasons, including when they:

are born early (premature)

are very small and have a low birthweight

have an infection

have jaundice

had a very difficult birth

are waiting for, or recovering from, complex surgery

Touching and holding your baby

The special care baby unit may seem strange and confusing at first, especially if your baby is in an incubator or on a breathing machine. There may also be tubes and wires attached to their face and body.

Ask the nurse to explain what everything is for and show you how you can be involved in your baby's care. You may be able to change your baby's nappy, wash them and change their clothing.

Once your baby's stable, you'll be able to hold them. The nurses will be able to help you take your baby out of the incubator and show you how to have skin-to-skin contact.

Your baby will benefit greatly from physical contact with you. You can talk to your baby as well - this can help both of you.

You should wash your hands carefully and dry them thoroughly before touching your baby.

Feeding

To begin with, your baby may be too small or too sick to feed themselves. You can express some of your breast milk, which can be given to your baby through a tube.

A fine tube is passed through their nose or mouth into the stomach. This will not hurt them.

Talk to a midwife at the hospital about how you can express breast milk for your baby. The hospital may have breast pumps you can use.

Your milk has particular benefits, especially if your baby is sick or premature, as it's enriched with proteins (such as antibodies), fats and minerals.

If your baby is not able to have your milk to begin with, the milk can be frozen and given to them when they're ready.

When you go home, you can express milk for the nurses to give while you're away. There's no need to worry about how much milk you produce - every bit helps your baby.

Incubators

Babies who are very small are nursed in incubators rather than cots to keep them warm. You can still have a lot of contact with your baby.

Some incubators have open tops, but if your baby's incubator does not, you can put your hands through the holes in the side of the incubator to stroke and touch them.

Newborn babies with jaundice

Jaundice in newborn babies is common because their livers are not fully developed. Jaundice will make their skin and the whites of their eyes look a bit yellow.

Babies with severe jaundice may be treated with light therapy (phototherapy). The baby is undressed and put under a very bright light, usually with soft eye pads or a special box over their head to protect their eyes.

The special light helps break down the chemical that causes jaundice. It may be possible for your baby to have phototherapy by your bed in the postnatal ward so you do not have to be separated.

Light treatment may continue for several days, with breaks for feeds, before the jaundice clears up. Sometimes, if the jaundice gets worse, your baby may need a blood transfusion. This is not common.

Some babies have jaundice because of liver disease and need different treatment. A blood test that checks for liver disease is done before phototherapy is started.

Find out more about how newborn jaundice is treated.

Babies with jaundice after 2 weeks

Many babies are jaundiced for up to 2 weeks after they're born, or 3 weeks in premature babies.

It's more common in breastfed babies and does no harm. It is not a reason to stop breastfeeding.

It's important to see your doctor within a day or 2 if your baby is still jaundiced after 2 weeks, especially if their poo is chalky white. This can indicate a liver problem.

A blood test will distinguish between jaundice that'll go away by itself, or jaundice that may need urgent treatment.

Babies with disabilities

If your baby is disabled, talk to people about how you feel, as well as about your baby's health and future.

Your GP, a doctor for newborn babies (neonatologist), a children's doctor (paediatrician) or your health visitor can all help you.

You can also contact the hospital Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) or your social services department (through your local authority on GOV.UK) for information about local organisations that may be able to help.

The organisations listed here can offer help and advice:

Talking to other parents with similar experiences can often help.

Worries and explanations

Hospital staff should explain what kind of treatment your baby is being given and why. If they do not tell you, ask them.

It's important that you understand what's happening so you can work together to make sure your baby gets the best possible care.

Some treatments need your consent to go ahead, and the doctors will discuss this with you.

It's natural to feel anxious if your baby needs special care. Talk over any fears or worries with the hospital staff. Hospitals often have their own counselling or support services, and a number of charities run support and advice services.

The consultant neonatologist or paediatrician should arrange to see you, but you can also ask for an appointment at any time if you wish.

The hospital social worker may be able to help with practical issues, such as travel costs or help with looking after children.

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Find out about the special care given to babies born early (prematurely) or those who are sick, jaundiced or born with a disability.

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News About us Get involved Run For Us Picnic Meet with your MP to ask for Neonatal Leave Now How to Fundraise You give | we do Subscribe to our newsletter Who We Are Our Mission After NICU: A post pandemic report 2021 Prem Aware Award Your premature child at

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Lullaby Trust - Safer sleep advice for premature and low birth weight babies

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Lullaby Trust - Safer sleep advice for premature and low birth weight babies

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Reducing the risk of SIDS for premature babies

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Reducing the risk of SIDS for premature babies

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Babies who are born prematurely (before 37 weeks) or of low birth weight (under 2.5kgs) are particularly vulnerable and it is important that all the safe sleep advice is followed. Premature babies are sometimes slept on their front in hospital for special medical reasons. When they are getting ready to go home these babies should always sleep on their back to reduce the risk of sudden infant death.

Download our Safer Sleep Advice for Premature Babies guide below for further information on reducing the risk of SIDS.

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Babies who are born prematurely (before 37 weeks) or of low birth weight (under 2.5kgs) are particularly vulnerable and it is important that all the safe sleep advice is followed. Premature babies are sometimes slept on their front in hospital for special medical reasons. When they are getting ready to go home these babies should [...]

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This information is available in verified by experts in our Editorial Board including representatives from Royal College of Midwives, Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and Royal College of Psychiatrists as well as other key health organisations in the UK. To download Baby Buddy, visit the relevant app store of your choice:

Introduction

The first video from the Small Wonders DVD explains the different levels of care your baby might need, and who might give it. We meet some of the families and hospital staff, and guide you as to how to use this DVD to get support, wherever you are on your journey.

In the second video from the Small Wonders DVD, we meet three families, two who had time to prepare for life in a neonatal unit and one who had very little warning. We see three births, one of which is the birth of triplets, and we follow the babies being prepared for transfer to the neonatal unit.

First hours

The third video from the Small Wonders DVD provides a look into the first hours and days in the neonatal unit and shows you how you, as a parent, can play a very important role in your baby's care.

Expressing breast milk

The fourth video from the Small Wonders DVD shows how mothers can express breast milk for their baby within a few hours of giving birth (if at all possible mothers should express milk within the first 6 hours after giving birth). Starting to express breast milk early and expressing milk often will help your body produce plenty of milk for the weeks and months to come.

Holding your baby

The fifth video from the Small Wonders DVD shows how skin-to-skin contact (also known as 'kangaroo care') can help both you and your baby. You will see families move from being nervous to being able to hold their babies with confidence.

Your time in hospital

The sixth video from the Small Wonders DVD follows families as they begin to feel more confident in caring for their babies on the neonatal unit. You will also see how some of our families cope with their baby's condition getting worse.

Feeding independently

The seventh video from the Small Wonders DVD follows four families as they learn to help their babies feed independently of tubes. Although some babies may go home being fed by tube, most will be feeding independently before they are discharged from hospital, whether they are breastfeeding or formula-feeding.

Preparing for home

The eighth video from the Small Wonders DVD covers what to expect when your baby is ready to leave hospital. We follow five families as they prepare to go home.

First months at home

The ninth video from the Small Wonders DVD follows nine families enjoying the early weeks and months at home with their pre-term baby. They all have different experiences and challenges.

Twins and triplets

The tenth video from the Small Wonders DVD follows four families who had twins or triplets and discovers some some of the joys and challenges that come with having more than one baby.

Bereavement

This video from the Small Wonders DVD is only for families who have to deal with bereavement. We have included it because parents asked us to. Only watch this video if you feel it will be helpful to you and please be aware that everyone's experience of bereavement is different and may not reflect your own. This film follows the journeys of families who lost babies during filming and chose to carry on sharing their experiences to help others.

The twelfth and final video from the Small Wonders DVD shows the families whose journeys we have been following in films 1 to 10 looking back on their experiences and sharing their thoughts and feelings.

Latest

The Impact Lead will focus on developing Best Beginnings' frameworks for monitoring and evaluating our national and international work ensuring that learning continues to be captured in ways that can be shared and used for effective advocacy and influencing. The successful candidate will also play a pivotal role influencing policy and its implementation within the maternity, early years, digital health and public health context.

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The Small Wonders videos have been designed to help you on your journey with your sick or premature baby.

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A Stay in Neonatal Care - Preparing to Take Your Baby Home

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Website:
https://spoons.org.uk/

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Spoons Charity - Neonatal Family Support

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Spoons Charity - Neonatal Family Support

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Spoons Charity offers support to families experiencing neonatal intensive care in the Greater Manchester area.

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A-Z mental health - Mind

https://youtu.be/WHpHP4HFRT4

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Hearts & Minds Partnership:
Hearts and Minds (heartsandmindspartnership.org)

Smile UK
www.thesmilegroup.org

Maternal OCD
www.maternalocd.org

Action on Postpartum Psychosis: www.app-network.org

Motherwell Cheshire
Motherwell Cheshire CIO – Encourage, Inspire, Empower

Association for Postnatal Illness:
http://apni.org/

Anxiety UK
www.anxietyuk.org.uk

Bipolar UK
www.bipolaruk.org

Samaritans
Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen

Hub of Hope
Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope

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Samaritans works to make sure there's always someone there for anyone who needs someone. Read more.

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Help and emotional support for parents during pregnancy and the first year after birth

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Help and emotional support for parents during pregnancy and the first year after birth

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MIND: How to talk to your GP
https://youtu.be/Dqb-n_L5hIA

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How to talk to your GP about your mental health | Find the Words

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Mental Health Foundation
Mental Health Foundation

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We are Rethink Mental Illness

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Action on Postpartum Psychosis | National charity supporting women and families affected by postpartum psychosis (app-network.org)

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Gaining Control of your Life after having  Baby

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Gaining Control of your Life after having  Baby

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http://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/

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Cheshire West:
Western Cheshire IAPT | CWP

Central Cheshire:
Central Cheshire Wellbeing Hub | CWP

Halton:
Think Wellbeing (IAPT) service for people in Halton with low mood, anxiety and panic attacks (merseycare.nhs.uk)

Knowsley:
Think Wellbeing (IAPT) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

Liverpool:
Talk Liverpool - Home Talk Liverpool

Sefton:
Talking Matters Sefton | Mental Health Matters (mhm.org.uk)

Warrington:
Talking Matters Warrington | Mental Health Matters (mhm.org.uk)

Wirral:
Talking Together Wirral - Therapy Counselling Wirral - Insight IAPT

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Think Wellbeing (IAPT) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Think Wellbeing offers free NHS therapy for people in Knowsley with common mental health problems like anxiety or depression, to help you change the way you feel by changing the way you think.

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Psychosis; Planning Guide for those at High Risk of Psychosis 

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Psychosis; Planning Guide for those at High Risk of Psychosis 

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Interactive Map to search for Local Perinatal Mental Health Support by Postcode:

Hearts and Minds (heartsandmindspartnership.org)

Further information and Resources
Hearts and Minds (heartsandmindspartnership.org)

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Website: www.pandasfoundation.org.uk

Helpline: 0808 1961 776
(Mon-Sun 11am-10pm)

Email: info@pandasfoundation.org.uk

Text Line: Text PANDAS to 85258 24/7 - 7 Days a week
Free service and doesn't show up on your Bill.

Support Groups: Support Groups - PANDAS Foundation UK

Weekly Zoom Support Call:
Every Thursday 20:00+
PANDAS Central Support Call Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite

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Bob, whose experience of fatherhood was unlike anything he had expected.

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Bob, whose experience of fatherhood was unlike anything he had expected.

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A cartoonist’s journey into
first-time fatherhood

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A cartoonist's journey into first-time fatherhood

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Dad Matters – Supporting Dads in Greater Manchester to have the best possible relationships with their families.

Welcome to Dadvengers - Dadvengers

Miscarriage support for the Dads
Support Network | Miscarriage For Men

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Welcome to Dadvengers

The posts on the Dadvengers Dad Blog are here to support fathers on their journey through parenthood. The posts are curated by Founder Nigel Clarke and written by you our Dadvengers followers. Whether you are a father, a mother, a soon to be dad, a grandad, grandma, a carer, a parenting professional, a parenting blogger we want you to get involved. Maybe you want to submit a post or perhaps just drop a comment on a post, it doesn’t matter, we want to hear from you. Tell us your experiences, make suggestions, and generally bring your thoughts to the table.

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Each week, the Dadvengers take to Instagram Live to discuss various topics. You can view the latest chats below

Last week it was the 2 year anniversary of George…

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Before Coronavirus Pandemic At the start of the year I wasn’t worried about Dads and the Work-Life Balance. It was all hustle, work hard and always be on the grind….

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When Dadvengers started, online resources were our priority. We wanted to have content parents could access from anywhere. 2 years on and a global pandemic behind us we realised how…

Hello! My name is Eli, I am a deaf father of 3 hearing children. My family and I all communicate in British Sign Language (BSL). Sign Language is very important to…

When I had my children, I didn’t think I would end up being a single dad. You never imagine on the day you say “I do” that this where you…

Celebrity Dad Quotes

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Testimonials

I have been part of the dadvengers crew for about 6 months now. I have been made so welcome to it. Everyone is so supportive and kind. It’s been a huge help in my life and I will never look back. I am so thankful I am a part of this community. The advice I have received from fellow parents… Read more “Dadvengers is amazing support for all parents and not just dads.”

Gareth Edwards

Dadvengers has rapidly become a great place for dads to meet and discussing the various challenges us dads face, plus highlight the positive fun moments. The Live Chats are always expertly moderated by Nigel Clarke and he does not shy away from tough issues such as race. There are not enough places for dads to go and chat about fatherhood without judgement… Read more “John Adams – Dadblog UK”

John Adams - Dadblog UK

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Welcome to Dadvengers The posts on the Dadvengers Dad Blog are here to support fathers on their journey through parenthood. The posts are curated by Founder Nigel Clarke and written by you our Dadvengers followers. Whether you are a father, a mother, a soon to be dad, a grandad, grandma, a carer, a parenting professional, a parenting blogger we want...

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Click the link below to access all our resources about support for dads

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Building a society that supports men as hands-on fathers and father-figures

The Fatherhood Institute is a UK charity working to build a society that values, prepares, and supports men as involved fathers and caregivers.

Evidence shows that involved fatherhood has unique and significant impacts on children, mothers, and fathers themselves; improves children's wellbeing and outcomes; and helps progress towards gender equality at home and in the workplace.

Our work focuses on research, policy, and practice. We publish research reviews, take part in new studies and test promising family interventions; advocate for policy change; produce practice resources; and train practitioners in perinatal, early years, education, and social care services.

In July 2023 we started a Parliamentary petition calling on the Government to improve its statutory paternity offer, by:

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Paying employed fathers two weeks' paternity leave at 90% of salary

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Introducing a 'daddy month' of four weeks' parental leave, paid at the same rate

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Introducing a Paternity Allowance for fathers who are not employees

If 10,000 people sign the petition by 11 January 2024, the Government will have to respond to this proposal.

Our policy work streams

Discover our work to create more father-inclusive policies and services

Our research

Read our high-quality research reviews, co-investigations with eminent universities, and empirical research

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The Fatherhood Institute is a UK charity working to build a society that values, prepares, and supports men as involved fathers and caregivers. Our work focuses on research, policy, and practice.

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There's a lot for dads and partners to think about too. Read about becoming a parent and how you can bond with your little one.

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A community of like minded dads and expectant fathers who are passionate about being the best possible dads for their kids.

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✔ Simple to Use

Hundreds of stress‐busting tips in the palm of your hand.

✔ Easy to Understand

No waffle. Just simple, practical advice for men.

"Every new dad should have this app."

Mark R. (App Store Review)

✔ Quick to Read

No long, wordy pages. Just lots of helpful pics and handy tips.

✔ Greater Peace of Mind

Learn how to take great care of your partner and new baby.

"Such great advice and so easy to use."

Dave L. (App Store Review)

Quick Dad Quote

Quick Dad Tip
From Izzy C.

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Quick Tips For New Dads: FREE Survival Guide & iPhone App

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Hundreds of stress­‐busting tips in the palm of your hand. No waffle. Just simple, practical advice for men. "Every new dad should have this app." Mark R. (App Store Review) No long, wordy pages. Just lots of helpful pics and handy tips. Learn how to take great care of your partner and new baby.

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This short video shows dads bonding with babies. It explains how eye contact, cuddling, talking and smiling help bonding and baby development.

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I was a bit scared when we found out we were having a baby, obviously happy, but a bit scared and in the beginning I was a bit clueless. The child development part is my favourite bit, but there's things in there, like things about mental health, that I didn't know about and that I didn't know you needed to know about.

Ross, 22

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DadPad | The Essential Guide for New Dads | Support Guide for New Dads

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Developed with the NHS, DadPad gives new dads and dads-to-be the knowledge and skills needed to gain confidence and give their baby the best start in life.

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The calls will take place between 20.00-22.00 every other Monday, beginning from 4th April. The calls are drop in, so please feel free to join and leave the call when it suits you within that timeframe.

Please Register Here:
PANDAS Dads support call Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite

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Are you a dad and feeling the strain of parenthood?

Calling all dads, we know how hard it can be becoming a new parent, and especially harder in the current times.

PANDAS have come to help you connect with other Dads.

This is a drop in call for all who may need a little extra support in these hard times. You can jump on and leave at any time that suits you.

Here you will be able to chat to other dads who maybe experiencing similar and hopefully feel less isolated.

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Eventbrite - Glasgow PANDAS presents PANDAS Dads support call - Monday, 4 April 2022 | Monday, 15 August 2022 - Find event and ticket information.

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What is CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)?

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What is CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)?

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What is CBT? (babcp.com)

Overview - Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

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CBT works for lots of different people and problems, and is widely recommended by national treatment guidelines across the UK, EU and North America.

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) provides independent, evidence-based guidance for the NHS on the most effective, proven treatments. CBT is recommended in NICE guidelines for many different problems, including:

anxiety disorders (including panic attacks)

depression

obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

psychosis and schizophrenia

bipolar disorder

eating disorders

tinnitus

insomnia

There is also good evidence that CBT is helpful in helping people cope with the symptoms of many other conditions, including:

chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

fibromyalgia

chronic pain

CBT approaches can be used with children as well as adults and older adults.

A course of CBT can be completed alone or at the same time as taking medication prescribed by a GP or other doctor. This will depend on the difficulty CBT is helping with and on personal choice.

Our personal stories and podcast Let's Talk About CBT both include real-life accounts of therapy for different problems.

How CBT is delivered

CBT can be offered in individual sessions with a therapist or as part of a group. The number of CBT sessions needed depends on the difficulty. Often it is between five and 20 weekly sessions - usually lasting about an hour.

CBT is mainly concerned with how we think and act now, although sometimes our current difficulties are related to things which have happened in our past, and so these might also be part of what we talk about.

Goals for therapy are set together with the therapist after talking things through to properly understand the problem.

Most sessions begin with agenda setting - agreeing together what that session will concentrate on. A therapist will not tell someone coming for therapy what to do or what to talk about.

CBT works best when it involves working on things in between sessions as well as during them. Tasks will be planned together.

As the therapy comes to an end we will think together about how to continue using CBT techniques in daily life after treatment.

CBT is available in a wide range of different settings, including schools, GP surgeries, specialist clinics and hospitals. It is sometimes provided online. This may be combined with flexible telephone, video or face-to-face appointments to check progress and help overcome any obstacles. This has made CBT more accessible to busy people and reduced delays in getting help.

Self-help CBT

There are plenty of CBT-based self-help books available, as well as free websites about CBT techniques. However, evidence does show that using them works better with support from a therapist, especially for low mood.

Finding a therapist

CBT is widely available on the NHS. It's usually best to first discuss difficulties with your GP, although self-referrals are possible in some NHS services, and private therapists are also available. Before starting CBT, we recommend that you check that your therapist is accredited with us.

Our members who are accredited and registered have demonstrated they meet high standards of training and experience in CBT, and are distinguished by their commitment to maintaining our standards of clinical practice, clinical supervision and continuing professional development. If you are looking for a CBT therapist, we encourage you to consult our register of accredited members.

It is important to note that 'CBT therapist' is not a protected title, and individuals who are not accredited or registered with BABCP may still practice. Anyone with an interest in cognitive and behavioural therapies can join BABCP. Membership of BABCP does not confer professional status, but it signifies a commitment to adhering to our Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics, and our Complaints Policy. As such, our members have agreed to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability in their practice of cognitive and behavioural therapies. However, we are committed to promoting the practice of cognitive and behavioural therapies and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability through our accredited and registered members.

To find details of our BABCP accredited CBT therapists visit www.cbtregisteruk.com.

You can download a pdf version of the information on this page by clicking your chosen language.

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british association for behavioural & cognitive psychotherapy

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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, is a talking therapy proved to help treat a wide range of emotional and physical health conditions in adults, young people and children

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What is Eye Movement Desensitaisation, Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy?

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What is Eye Movement Desensitaisation, Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy?

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What is EMDR? | Types of therapy (bacp.co.uk)

EMDR: The basics - EMDR Association UK - Overcoming trauma with expert help

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BACP member Dr Justin Havens explains what Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is and how it can help

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Merseycare Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service (Covers all of Cheshire & Merseyside)

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Merseycare Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service (Covers all of Cheshire & Merseyside)

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https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/our-services/liverpool/specialist-perinatal-service

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Who we are

One in five women experiences mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year after birth.

We provide important mental health assessment and support for local women and birthing people experiencing mental health issues during this time.
We can help in a number of ways:
Specialist assessment and support

We provide one to one assessment and ongoing support if you are pregnant or have a baby who is under 24 months, and:

Are currently experiencing complex or severe mental health problems

Have a history of, or are at risk of, developing severe or complex mental health problems during the perinatal period, even if you are currently well.

Pregnancy planning

We offer pregnancy planning support appointments if you are thinking about, or planning to have, a baby, and:

have a history of complex mental health problems or are taking medication for mental health problems

are worried about the impact having a baby will have on their mental health

have anxiety around pregnancy, childbirth or becoming a parent.

You can call your local team to refer yourself.
Please let us know if you need adjustments to suit mobility, language or other specific needs.

Phone consultation and advice for health professionals

We provide advice for any health or social care professionals working with women who are receiving support from primary or secondary mental health services and are either pregnant, planning a pregnancy or have a baby who is under 24 months.

Hannah's story

Below you can watch a video with Hannah, a mum from Warrington who has used our Specialist Perinatal Service. In the video, Hannah shares her experience of postnatal depression after the birth of her son, and how our service has helped her.

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cheshire and wirral partnership nhs foundation trust

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Specialist Perinatal Service :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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One in five women experiences mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year after birth. We provide important mental health assessment and support for local women and birthing people experiencing mental health issues during this time.

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Birth Trauma Association:
www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk

Make Birth Better
Make Birth Better

Unfold Your Wings:
UNFOLD YOUR WINGS – Hope, Support and Awareness for Birth Trauma and Perinatal PTSD

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Twins Trust:
Resources for parents (twinstrust.org)

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Abigail's Footsteps
https://www.abigailsfootsteps.co.uk

Beyond Bea
https://www.beyondbea.co.uk

Cradle Early Loss Support
http://www.cradlecharity.org/
Cradle | Facebook

Child Bereavement UK
How we can support you | Child Bereavement UK

Love Jazmine
Bereavement Support | Merseyside | Love, Jasmine (lovejasmine.org.uk)

Lullaby Trust
Bereavement support after the death of a baby or child - The Lullaby Trust

Miscarriage Association
Your feelings after miscarriage and pregnancy loss - The Miscarriage Association

SANDS
http://www.sands.org.uk/

Tommy's Baby Loss Support
Baby loss information and support | Tommy's (tommys.org)

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Child Bereavement UK helps children, parents and families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. We support children and young people up to the age of 25 who are facing bereavement, and anyone affected by the death of a child of any age. We offer free, confidential bereavement support by telephone, video or instant messenger, wherever you live in the UK.

Support sessions - support for individuals, couples, children, young people and families

Groups for families - facilitated groups for bereaved families where children aged 4-12 and their adult carers can meet others and explore their feelings through creative activities

Groups for young people - facilitated groups for those between the ages of 11 and 25 to meet for social activities and to work on creative projects

Groups for parents - facilitated groups for bereaved parents and carers to meet in a supportive environment

We welcome families and individuals of any race, colour, nationality, ethnicity, religion/faith, sex/gender/gender reassignment, marital/civil partnership status, or disability.

Get in touch via our Helpline on 0800 02 888 40 | [email protected] or Live Chat via this website and we can help you find the support that suits your needs.

In addition, we can offer face-to-face support if you are able to travel to one of the locations below:

Glasgow

Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children*

*This is a funded service providing support for parents bereaved of a child under the care of Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children:

Carlisle, Cumbria

Kendal, Cumbria

St Helen's, Merseyside

Wirral, Merseyside

Widnes, Cheshire

Teesside

Bradford, Yorkshire

Leeds,* Yorkshire

*This is a funded service providing support for children and young people in Leeds:

01133 503 598 | [email protected] (For anyone else seeking support in Leeds, please call 0800 02 888 40)

Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire

Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

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charity bereavement child death grief loss baby stillbirth miscarriage suicide young people

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Child Bereavement UK helps children, parents and families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. We support children and young people up to the age of 25 who are facing bereavement, and anyone affected by the death of a child of any age.

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Support for stillbirth, miscarriage, neonatal loss, ectopic pregnancy and compassionate induction/termination of pregnancy

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Lighthouses Therapy Services | Post Infant Loss Support Service

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Have you suffered a miscarriage or another form of infant loss? Or have you experienced the trauma of a termination of pregnancy? Lighthouses Therapy Services are here to help.

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SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

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SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

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SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

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Donate a bear in memory of a baby lost too soon. Some people find comfort in donating to Aching Arms

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Donate a bear in memory of a baby lost too soon. Some people find comfort in donating to Aching Arms

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The EPT1000 Challenge

Sign up to our EPT1000 Challenge for 2024! Participate in the EPT1000 Challenge local to your home or within your own home, at your pace. Covering 1000 miles or 100 km (your choice!) over the year, you can count climbing the stairs, joining in fitness videos online, and even gardening in totting up your distance. You can extend your timeframe or pause the Challenge too. Many previous Challengers express how The EPT1000 Challenge provides much-needed focus and time to reflect, helping their emotional and physical recovery while raising awareness and funds.
Sign up to The EPT1000 Challenge

Here for anyone who needs us

We're so sorry that you are going through a challenging time. It's natural to feel lost when dealing with an ectopic pregnancy. We hope to ease that slightly. Medical advice from your healthcare professionals is important, and so is emotional support.

No matter your circumstances, we're here for you.

Supporting family

You might have other children. You might find it challenging to talk to your parents about what you are going through. It could be that your child has experienced an ectopic pregnancy. We can help you find the words you may be looking for.
Read our guidance for families

Do you or someone you know have symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?

There are a few key symptoms of ectopic pregnancy which can be similar to other conditions - like miscarriage, urinary infection, or upset stomach. If you have a missed period and symptoms such as abdominal pain or unusual vaginal bleeding, it is important to get checked out. It is a good idea to do a pregnancy test. Symptoms may be nothing to worry about and you may have a "normal" pregnancy - but it is worth getting medical attention to rule out an ectopic pregnancy to be on the safe side.

Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the cavity ("space") of the uterus (womb). The most common place for an ectopic pregnancy is in a Fallopian tube (also occasionally called a tubal pregnancy) but there are many other sites where an ectopic pregnancy can be located, such as the ovary, cervix, abdomen, or caesarean scar. It is, sadly, not possible to move an ectopic pregnancy into the uterus.

Any woman or person who is sexually active or having fertility treatment (like IVF) is at risk of an ectopic pregnancy. There are some situations which may make a woman or person higher risk but there is often no way of knowing for sure why an ectopic pregnancy has happened in many cases.

If an ectopic pregnancy is suspected, doctors will conduct tests to confirm or rule it out. These tests include a scan called a transvaginal ultrasound scan and sometimes checking hormone levels.
Find out more about ectopic pregnancies

What are the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?

Although there could be another explanation, if vaginal bleeding occurs and you have had a positive pregnancy test, it's really important that you get it checked out. Some bleeding in early pregnancy can occur in a normal pregnancy - but still seek medical advice straight away.

Vaginal bleeding or pains in the abdomen should be investigated urgently by a medical professional as they could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy. If not diagnosed and treated quickly, it may be a life-threatening situation because of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. So don't wait.

These signs don't mean an ectopic pregnancy is the only outcome; it's just better to be safe. Always seek medical advice when experiencing abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding in any trimester of pregnancy. It is ok to trust your instincts.
Read about how an ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed

How is an ectopic pregnancy treated?

After diagnosis by a doctor, there are three main treatment options:

- expectant management (watchful waiting to see if the pregnancy resolves on its own);

- medical management with a drug called methotrexate;

- surgery (usually a laparoscopy or keyhole surgery but sometimes a laparotomy or open surgery).

The treatment options available will depend on clinical factors such as your pregnancy hormone level (called human chorionic gonadotropin or hCG) and the extent of pain or bleeding, so follow guidance from your healthcare professional.
More about the different treatment options

We're here to help

Support after an ectopic pregnancy

From forums to virtual support groups, we have many ways to help you. You don't have to navigate this on your own.

Education

We work hard to increase awareness about symptoms of ectopic pregnancy, treatment options, and recovery.

Research

At The EPT, we pride ourselves in our contribution to ectopic pregnancy research and the medical community.

About The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust

The EPT provides information about the causes, symptoms and treatment of ectopic pregnancy, as well as much-needed support to families affected by ectopic pregnancy and the healthcare professionals who care for them.
Find out more about The EPT

Giving support, giving guidance, giving comfort - give what you can, too.

Over the last year, we've seen a drop in donations. Help us continue driving awareness, education and support to those through diagnosis, treatment and recovery - donate to our cause now. Every penny makes a real difference!

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Information and support for anyone affected by ectopic pregnancy and other early pregnancy complications, and the healthcare professionals who care for them.

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Supporting families when pregnancy doesn't go to plan

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baby loss
charity 
neo natal 
pregnancy 
pregnancy loss
baby loss 
ivf
support
family
miscarriage
grief

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Elsie's Moon aims to support families when pregnancy doesn't follow the plan

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If you’ve been affected by miscarriage, molar pregnancy or ectopic pregnancy, we hope this website will provide the information that you’re looking for.

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After thirty years of service our very first National Director, Ruth Bender Atik is retiring and we are recruiting for a new CEO. Our next Chief Executive will have the full support of the trustees to develop the strategy that will take the Miscarriage Association through the next chapter of its journey, based on a [...]
Continue reading "

We are so thankful to everyone who contributes to Baby Loss Awareness Week. Sharing stories, raising funds and getting involved on social media - it all helps us to spread the word and raise awareness of the impact of miscarriage, ectopic and molar pregnancy. Crucially, you help us all create and maintain this special opportunity [...]
Continue reading "

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has updated its guidance for doctors on caring for people with recurrent miscarriage. They have also published a patient information leaflet. What is new? There is a change in the definition of recurrent miscarriage more consideration of the occasions where someone might be offered tests after two [...]
Continue reading "

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The Miscarriage Association:Pregnancy Loss Information & Support

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Learn about the Miscarriage Association, how to cope, and support those experiencing pregnancy loss. Access vital resources and information.

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Website: https://motherwellcheshirecio.com/

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Dinky Devas is the Countess of Chester neonatal parents support group. We provide parents with the opportunity to connect with a fellow parent who understands what it is like to have a baby or babies in special care.

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Dinky Devas Countess of Chester Neonatal Unit Support Group has 338 members. Dinky Devas is the Countess of Chester neonatal parents support group. We provide parents with the opportunity to connect...

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Chester Miscarriage and Baby Loss Support Group

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Chester Miscarriage and Baby Loss Support Group

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Chester Miscarriage and Baby Loss Support Group - Because the pain doesn't stop when the tears do

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The Chester Miscarriage Support Group has been working with the Maternity Voices Partnership to improve the care received by those going through pregnancy and baby loss within the Countess Of Chester Hospital. We have already made huge progress and your experiences support us in ensuring the care give within our local trust is the best it can be at such a difficult time.

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Kirby New Pregnancy and New Parent Support

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Kirby New Pregnancy and New Parent Support

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Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Sometimes things can get in the way of you enjoying your relationship with your baby, such as depression, anxiety, a difficult birth, worries about your baby, or your own parenting experience and difficult events from the past. Having a baby can activate so many of our own insecurities and vulnerabilities as parents.

By offering specialist, therapeutic parent-infant mental health support during pregnancy and in the postnatal period - we can help parents to 'separate out' their own past and present struggles and issues, which without this specialist support, can have a huge impact on the parent-infant bond, relationship and mental health of both.

We believe that most parents want to be 'the best possible parent they can be to their baby' (and be a better parent than their own parents!). We want to support parents to build secure attachments and loving bonds with their babies, and go onto break tough negative life cycles which get in the way of what is the most important relationship - the parent infant relationship.

We provide easy to engage, non-judgemental parent-infant therapy and support, for pregnant women, new parents and their partners, who struggle with their emotional wellbeing, other vulnerabilities, and who have concerns about their bonding and relationship with their baby. We are a team of clinical psychologists parent infant therapists and multi-disciplinary professionals and volunteers who are passionate and committed to supporting parents in the Knowsley and Sefton communities.

Again, we are specialists in supporting parents/carers and infants with their mental health, emotional wellbeing and struggles from their babies and building happy, secure and loving relationships with their babies. Sessions are offered to families either in the family home or in the community.

What the parents we work with have to say

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Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Sometimes things can get in the way of you enjoying your relationship with your baby, such as depression, anxiety, a difficult birth, worries about your baby, or your own parenting experience and difficult events from the past. Having a baby can activate so many of our own insecurities and vulnerabilities as parents.

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Address:
151 Dale Street, Liverpool, L2 2AH

Website:
https://www.talkliverpool.nhs.uk/

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Sefton Peer Support Group:
(1) Pandas Sefton | Facebook

Email: Dani.Gillett@pandasfoundation.org.uk

Held:
Every Monday 10-12pm
The Feel Good Factory, Glovers Lane, Netherton, L30 5QW

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Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Sometimes things can get in the way of you enjoying your relationship with your baby, such as depression, anxiety, a difficult birth, worries about your baby, or your own parenting experience and difficult events from the past. Having a baby can activate so many of our own insecurities and vulnerabilities as parents.

By offering specialist, therapeutic parent-infant mental health support during pregnancy and in the postnatal period - we can help parents to 'separate out' their own past and present struggles and issues, which without this specialist support, can have a huge impact on the parent-infant bond, relationship and mental health of both.

We believe that most parents want to be 'the best possible parent they can be to their baby' (and be a better parent than their own parents!). We want to support parents to build secure attachments and loving bonds with their babies, and go onto break tough negative life cycles which get in the way of what is the most important relationship - the parent infant relationship.

We provide easy to engage, non-judgemental parent-infant therapy and support, for pregnant women, new parents and their partners, who struggle with their emotional wellbeing, other vulnerabilities, and who have concerns about their bonding and relationship with their baby. We are a team of clinical psychologists parent infant therapists and multi-disciplinary professionals and volunteers who are passionate and committed to supporting parents in the Knowsley and Sefton communities.

Again, we are specialists in supporting parents/carers and infants with their mental health, emotional wellbeing and struggles from their babies and building happy, secure and loving relationships with their babies. Sessions are offered to families either in the family home or in the community.

What the parents we work with have to say

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Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS) :: Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust

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Sometimes things can get in the way of you enjoying your relationship with your baby, such as depression, anxiety, a difficult birth, worries about your baby, or your own parenting experience and difficult events from the past. Having a baby can activate so many of our own insecurities and vulnerabilities as parents.

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Venus Charity; Empowering, Promoting and Supporting Women and their Families

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Venus Charity; Empowering, Promoting and Supporting Women and their Families

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Venus Charity | Empowering, promoting and supporting women, young women and their families

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About Us

Venus' Misson is:

To empower, promote and support women, young women and their children in developing their potential, recognising their choices, achieving their goals and challenging injustice

Steve McQueen - CEO

Bio

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Connect

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Case Study 1

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Refer a third Party

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Housing Related Support Programme

Offers befriending, advocacy, emotional and practical support to women and families who are vulnerable and may be in need of support to address parenting issues, access services and activities in the community. Children are offered one to one support from our dedicated Children’s Worker and families are supported to participate in processes such as Common Assessment Framework and Child Protection.

Our Children’s Worker facilitates the Venus Juniors Group each Thursday evening 4-5pm for children of parents engaging with our Families at Risk Programme. Referrals to this group should be made via support workers.

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Volunteer

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Self Referral

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Refer someone else

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To empower, promote and support women, young women and their children in developing their potential, recognising their choices, achieving their goals and challenging injustice

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We are running weekly groups in Halton and St Helens. We are also currently recruiting volunteers.

To refer yourself or someone else, or to find out more please contact Catherine on parentsinmind.nw@nct.org.uk or call her on 0770 290 0894 for more information.

If you are feeling low, anxious, disinterested in your usual activities and are pregnant or within two years of giving birth, then our friendly, welcoming support may be for you.

Our trained peer supporters can offer time and support through the Parents in Mind groups running in the local area.  A welcome, friendly, safe space is available to meet others going through similar experiences, seek information, talk things through, or simply relax.

Babies and toddlers welcome.

Attendance is by referral and this can be done by you, or through a health professionals such as your midwife, health visitor, GP, family nurse.

Please contact Catherine on parentsinmind.nw@nct.org.uk or call her on 0770 290 0894 for more information.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer then please get in touch.

Parents in Mind: Partners service in St Helens

Parents in Mind North West have launched a peer to peer support group for new dads and carers of children. Offering one to one support and group sessions, with weekly podcasts covering all aspects of mental health and being a new parent.

Helping to open up the conversations, break the stigma, to learn from each other and build relationships from shared experiences. Offering a space to talk, along with sign posting and connection to other organisations and services in the area.

If you or anyone you know is interested in finding out more, please email parentsinmind.nw@nct.org.uk

Follow us on Instagram: @nctparentsinmindpartners and Facebook: NCT Parents in Mind

Full Details of their service here:
Parents in Mind - Halton and St Helens | NCT

Meet the Team Behind NCT Parents in Mind:
Meet the PiM Team! - YouTube

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NCT Parents in Mind (St Helens & Halton) 

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NCT Parents in Mind (St Helens & Halton) 

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NCT Parents in Mind (St Helens, & Halton) 

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NCT Parents in Mind (St Helens, & Halton) 

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NCT Parents in Mind (St Helens & Halton) 

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NCT Parents in Mind (St Helens & Halton) 

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New Weekly Podcast Chat:
https://fb.watch/aWm9SMq1JQ/

New Dad, talks about their raw experience fo Postnatal Depression:
St Helens dad battled with post-natal depression after birth of first child | ITV News Granada

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Dad Matters – Supporting Dads in Greater Manchester to have the best possible relationships with their families.

Dad Matters UK - Facebook

Dad Matters Warrington - Facebook

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Wirral Peer Support Group:
(2) Post Natal Depression Awareness and Support, Wirral Support Group | Facebook

Email: pandaswirral@hotmail.com

Held:
Hoylake Parade community centre, Hoylake, Wirral

Every Wednesday 1-2pm

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https://wirralmind.org.uk/services/mums-matter/#:~:text=What%20is%20Mums%20Matter%3F,of%20perinatal%20mental%20health%20issues.

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We continue to follow government guidelines, meaning we are still unable to do home visits. We are however open for referrals to all of our services, just call us on 0151 608 8288 or email admin@koalanw.co.uk. Groups and Parenting Courses are running again, with a booking system in place for all groups/courses.

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Breastfeeding Support
Sleep Advice
and much more
https://koalanw.co.uk/

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KOALA Northwest Video Interaction Guidance

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KOALA Northwest Video Interaction Guidance