Dedicated support for new, expectant and bereaved mums in Norfolk and Waveney | News and events

New, expectant and bereaved mothers suffering from mental ill health can now access help and support from a dedicated team.

NSFT's Lotus team offers a therapeutic approach to trauma, loss and bereavement. Providing a holistic, yet individualised approach to a woman's care.

Dr Melanie White, Consultant Clinical Psychologist says:

“The new team offer a much-needed service for women who have lost a baby or who no longer have their baby living with them.

"In the past they would no longer be eligible for support from a perinatal mental health team. And would have struggled to access psychological support elsewhere in the NHS."

Jodie Butcher, People Participation Lead says:

“Women who have experience of perinatal mental ill health have been part of developing the treatment pathways. They have helped us to centre our service on reality not data."

"They reminded us that not all pregnancies reach the stage of meeting a midwife. As a result, we're working with A&E departments to provide support to women who experience early pregnancy loss."

Wendy Matthews OBE, Regional Chief Midwife, East of England NHS England & NHS Improvement, said;

“As Norfolk & Waveney launches their Maternal Mental Health Service it’s the start of a recovery journey for many women. Women that have suffered and experienced PTSD following birth trauma, perinatal loss and/or Tokophobia.

"This service will improve women’s experience within perinatal services. And improve outcomes of future pregnancies.”

Nicola Lovett, Lead Midwife for the Local Maternal and Neonatal System (LMNS) says: 

“This new service will offer invaluable support to families across the whole of Norfolk and Waveney. It showcases how our services can work together to meet the needs of the families we work with. We wish them every success as they start this new service.”

To find out more about the service visit the service page or call 01603 786745.