SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
It is hoped the service will soon go live when it will be able to accept direct referrals to support new parents.
Said the Foyle MLA: “After seeking updates on this vital provision, I’m pleased to received confirmation that the Perinatal Mental Health Service (PNMH) is almost fully staffed.
“The recruitment process has been moving at pace and currently there is a team lead, admin staff, an obstetrician, two mental health nurses and a specialist midwife in post.
“Recruitment has begun for a specialist mental health social worker, psychology staff and parent-infant psychotherapist. The next and final phase will see the recruitment of a specialist Occupational Therapist.
“I understand the service is currently working closely with, and seeing patients across mental health teams.
“They’ve also been working closely with the community and voluntary services delivering education and co-delivering groups.
“It’s hoped that the service will go live in the coming months when it will be in a position to accept direct referrals.
“This is a hard-won provision and one which I have advocated for for many years. It’s clear a massive gap in support for new parents in this area has existed for far too long.
“Parents shouldn’t have to suffer in silence during what can often be an isolating time.
“This provision will be essential to ensure families and their babies have the best start in life.”
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