New mental health boost for Oldham parents and babies

We've launched a mental health service in Oldham to support new or expectant parents and their babies.

Oldham early attachment service helps mums and dads to understand and build a relationship with their baby.

The service works with parents during pregnancy and until the baby’s second birthday, to help them manage the complex new relationships and challenging experiences which parenthood can bring.

Midwives, health visitors, GPs or social workers can make a referral into the service, for families who could benefit from additional support.

This includes people who are worried about their relationship with their baby, those who feel depressed or anxious during or after pregnancy, and those who experienced birth trauma.

Dr Philippa Gardner is a clinical psychologist and clinical lead for Oldham early attachment service.

Philippa said: “Parenthood can bring complex new relationships and experiences that can be hard to manage, for both mums and dads.

“Your past experiences, mental health, family relationships, and birth trauma can all impact the way you connect with your baby and how you feel about being a parent.

“These problems can affect anyone and we are here to support you to understand your relationship with your baby.

“The first 1001 days of a baby’s life, through pregnancy up to age two, are critical and have an impact on their brain development, emotional wellbeing, and mental health in later life.

“Speak to your midwife, health visitor or GP if you feel worried about your relationship with your baby, or the changes to your life and family, and they can discuss a referral with us.”

Oldham early attachment service is part of ourchild and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). Visit their webpage for more information