Council launches mental health support group for expectant and new parents

Havering Council’s new Butterflies Support Group, held at Collier Row Children’s Centre, will be open from Tuesday 9 January. The friendly weekly drop-in service, will provide support in a relaxed environment between 10am and 11.30am every Tuesday, for expectant or new parent/s.

Councillor Robert Benham, Cabinet Member for Children and Learning, said:

The Council aims to ensure that expectant and new parents can access the right support at the earliest stage to build a positive relationship with their baby.

The group aims to support women who are suffering persistent low moods, intrusive thoughts, have suffered a traumatic birthing experience, struggling to bond with baby during pregnancy or post birth, or are concerned about their partner’s mental wellbeing.

Perinatal Champion Natasha, said:

Preparing and becoming a parent is a time full of emotions for both mums and dads. It’s often a time of joy and excitement, but can also be a time of anxiety, stress and low moods. The majority of the time the focus of support is around mums, however dad’s may also need support and will benefit from visiting Butterflies.

“Dads may suffer from anxiety, low moods and other mental illnesses at this time. Dads and extended family members may also be struggling to support their partners or family who suffer with their mental health at this time.

For more information please call Michelle or Natasha on 01708 434747 or 01708 434748 or email butterflies@havering.gov.uk