We understand that being a parent can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be tough at times. Whether you have a newborn or you have been a parent or carer for a while, looking after a little one will always have its challenges and, for some of us, it may even impact on our mental health.

The Wellbeing team have designed short sessions, to support our colleagues to look after themselves, while they navigate the world of parenting. 

The sessions run for approximately 45 minutes via Teams. Each with a different theme. More sessions to be announced shortly

Date and time Registration
Friday 28 November
12pm
Theme: Christmas Expectations		 Click here to book

 

Pregnancy and becoming a parent is a time of huge transition for families. Being responsible for a vulnerable baby can feel understandably overwhelming at times.

It’s common to experiences changes to your wellbeing and mental health, with 1 in 5 (20%) women and birthing people experiencing mental health problems in pregnancy and/or the first year after birth.

Mersey Care offers a range of specialist support services to support mums and birthing people across the region:

Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS)

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Silver Birch Hubs

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Specialist Perinatal Services

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Perinatal Training Hub

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For anyone who is considering starting a family or having another baby/pregnancy and have a history of mental illness; you may be more likely to become unwell in the perinatal period. You can access a one off specialist perinatal pregnancy planning appointment, where you can explore options to support you keeping well and preventing relapse.
Find out more here: Specialist Perinatal Service .

Activities, advice and support can be found at your local family hub:

Below are some further resources you might like to consider:

Summer is a time when, inevitably, children will be spending more time on their devices especially if you are working from home and you need them distracted so you can join that important meeting

So how do we navigate the use of screens?

Click the image below for more details:

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Keeping children safe online | NSPCC

Family agreement | Childnet

Home - For Working Parents Limited

 

We are pleased to share a new resource developed by our Cheshire and Mersey Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service. This editable guide has been designed by Perinatal Occupational Therapists to support women and birthing people navigate the challenges of pregnancy, maternity leave, and returning to work - particularly those experiencing perinatal mental health difficulties.

The booklet covers a range of topics including:

  • Maternity rights and workplace adjustments
  • Returning to work after leave
  • Breastfeeding and employment
  • Childcare options and transitions
  • Managing work from home challenges
  • Emotional wellbeing and self care.

You can download the leaflet here: Balancing Motherhood and Work

This is a practical and compassionate tool that staff can use in their work with service users, whether in clinical settings, support roles, or community outreach. It’s especially helpful for guiding conversations around workplace planning, mental health support, and parenting transitions.

Please feel free to incorporate this into your practice and share it with colleagues or service users who may benefit. If you need an adapted version for inclusivity or specific needs, that can be arranged. If you would like to discuss the document, please contact us on 0151 702 4012.

 

You can download more information on the Cheshire and Mersey Specialist Perinatal Service, by clicking the image below

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New animation launch: a guide to perinatal mental health support

We're pleased to introduce our new animation showcasing how the Cheshire and Merseyside Specialist Perinatal Service supports parents struggling with their mental health during pregnancy and after birth.

This short video explains what families can expect when referred to our service, including tailored support options like psychological therapies, peer networks, and specialist care. It highlights our multidisciplinary team - including doctors, therapists, health visitors, and support workers - who work together to provide compassionate care.

Please take a moment to watch and share the animation with colleagues and families.