HPFT’s Community Perinatal Team featured on BBC’s Inside Out London show

06 Feb 20

The numerous benefits of seeking help from the Community Perinatal Team (CPT) were highlighted by BBC’s Inside Out London show this week (3 February).

HPFT’s CPT Clinical Psychologist, Dr Ellen Craig appeared on the show during an appointment with expectant mother, Anna Williamson. Dr Craig talked about how the newly created team is providing valuable support for women with mental health problems throughout their pregnancy until their child reaches one year old, or even pre-conception if they have experienced mental health problems in the past.

Members of our Community Perinatal Team with their Highly Commended certificate at the Positive Practice in Mental Health Awards last October (Dr Ellen Craig second from right)

Dr Craig said: “This is such an important area of mental health, with 1 in 5 expectant and new mums struggling with treatable mental health difficulties. I’m so pleased to have been able support this mum who has used our service, in discussing her experiences so openly.

“Access to specialist teams like ours and awareness of perinatal mental health generally, have both improved so much recently; but there is always more we can do to ensure that all mums who need our help, are able to recognise this and access the right support.“

HPFT’s Executive Director for Service Delivery and Service User Experience Sandra Brookes said: “Our Community Perinatal Team is leading the way in delivering high quality services in baby clinics/family centres etc. to help break down the barriers and stigmas associated with seeking help for mental health problems.

“I’m so pleased HPFT had the opportunity to take part in this programme. It’s really important to let people know about these new services and to encourage women to seek support earlier, instead of suffering in silence.”

You can watch the programme on the BBC iPlayer and find out more about the Community Perinatal Team here.

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HPFT’s Community Perinatal Team featured on BBC’s Inside Out London show