One charity's approach to perinatal depression and social inclusion
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/20428301211281078 |
| Date | 23 November 2012 |
| Published date | 23 November 2012 |
| Pages | 206-210 |
| Author | Rhian Beynon,Simon Wafula |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care |
One charity’s approach to perinatal
depression and social inclusion
Rhian Beynon and Simon Wafula
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an example of effective multi-agency working
between the statutory health services and the voluntary sector in the field of perinatal mental health.
Design/methodology/approach – The Perinatal Support Project (PSP) is an example of an innovative
voluntary sector solution to the twin problems of perinatal mental health and social exclusion. The paper
explores the structure of the PSP in the context of perinatal mental health researchbefore explaining the
significance of the role of volunteer ‘‘befrienders’’ in alleviating maternal depression and reducing social
isolation. The paper then presents data from the latest independent evaluation into the PSP before
calling for more services of this nature.
Findings – The paper highlights the individual success of the PSP model in alleviating maternal
depression, improving mother-babyattachment and reducing social isolation. It attests to the benefits of
effective multi-agency partnerships more generally.
Originality/value – There is a scarcity of truly early interventionist services for vulnerable families. This
case study serves as an independently evaluated example of good practice for community practitioners
and commissioning groups.
Keywords Perinatal, Depression, Early intervention, Isolation, Volunteers, Mental illness,
Mental health services
Paper type Case study
Introduction
The peri-natal period (i.e. the period commencing with pregnancy and ending one year after
birth) is a vulnerable time for families and the onset of depression – either during pregnancy
or after birth – is one of the greatest threats to a mother’s wellbeing.
The lasting impact perinatal depression can have on a mother’s psychological wellbeing and
a child’s development form the basis of much research into early intervention today.
In particular, a study by Harris (2004) suggests that the provisionof emotional and practical
support to new and expectant mothers can halve the rate of the onset of perinatal
depression. Family Action[1] is a charity that works with disadvantaged and vulnerable
families across England, providing a range of home-based support services, one of which –
the Perinatal Support Project (PSP) – promotes the role of social support in tackling perinatal
depression.
The PSP operates in four locations: Hackney, East London; West Mansfield; Swaffham
in Norfolk; and Oxford. Funded through the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) Lottery and by the Henry
Smith and Monument Trusts, it provides intensive support throughout pregnancyand in the
first year of a child’s life. Professional perinatal project coordinators build and maintain
multi-agency partnerships and networks of referral, and recruit, train and supervise
volunteer befrienders to provide emotional, parenting and practical support to mums at risk
of or suffering depression.
PAGE 206
j
MENTAL HEALTHAND SOCIAL INCLUSION
j
VOL. 16 NO. 4 2012, pp. 206-210, QEmerald Group Publishing Limited, ISSN 2042-8308 DOI 10.1108/20428301211281078
Rhian Beynon and
Simon Wafula are based at
Family Action, London, UK.
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