Reaching out for support can feel difficult, especially when you’re already carrying a lot. Any step, however small, is enough. If one service doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to try another.

Pregnancy and Postnatal Mental Health

Perinatal Mental Health Teams (NHS)

Specialist mental health support during pregnancy and after birth

NHS teams supporting parents with moderate to severe mental health difficulties

Support during pregnancy and up to one year after birth

Care may include therapy, medication support, and specialist follow-up

How to access: Referral via GP, midwife, health visitor, or other healthcare professional
Cost: Free (NHS)

Specialist support within the NHS for parents who need more structured mental health care.

Home-Start UK   

Practical and emotional support for families with young children

Local volunteers offering regular, compassionate support

Help with emotional wellbeing, confidence, and day-to-day parenting

Available to all parents with children under 5

Website: https://www.home-start.org.uk/ 
How to access: Self-referral or professional referral
Cost: Free

Home-Start is rooted in kindness, consistency, and real-life support.

PANDAS Foundation

Support for pre- and postnatal mental health

Emotional support for parents experiencing perinatal mental illness

Telephone support line, email support and peer support options

Information and reassurance for parents and families

Support line: Available on set days/times
Website: https://pandasfoundation.org.uk/
Cost: Free

A compassionate listening service from people who understand perinatal mental health.

NCT Support Line

Listening support for new parents

Confidential listening service for parents in the early days

Support for feeding, emotional wellbeing, and adjustment to parenthood

Available to all parents, not just NCT members

Support line: 0300 330 0700
Website: https://www.nct.org.uk/
Cost: Free

Gentle reassurance and practical guidance during an often overwhelming transition.

General Mental Health Support (Parents & Adults)

Mind

Mental health information and support

Advice, local services, and helplines

Support for anxiety, depression, overwhelm and more

Website: https://www.mind.org.uk/
Helpline: 0300 102 1234
Cost: Free

Samaritans

Emotional support for anyone feeling overwhelmed

24/7 confidential listening service

You do not need to be suicidal to call

Phone: 116 123
Website: https://www.samaritans.org/
Cost: Free

If you’re not sure which service is right for you, that’s okay. Reaching out anywhere is a good first step. If you can, speaking to your GP or health visitor can help you access the right support locally.