Luciana Berger MP, Labour’s Shadow Cabinet Minister for Mental Health, commenting on the launch of the first Infant Mental Health Week, said:
“Looking after women’s mental health during pregnancy and the early years of their child’s life is critical in ensuring the best start for all children.
“This Tory Government promised to make perinatal mental health a priority but on their watch the number of specialist beds and inpatient mother and baby units have fallen. Ministers did not even spend the money they promised to perinatal mental health last year. Too many women are left to struggle without the right support.
“The inaugural Infant Mental Health Week is an important opportunity to raise the profile of perinatal mental health, hold the Government to account for their broken promises, and campaign to ensure that all new and expectant mothers get the help that they need and deserve.’