Social Care Services
Netmums Database of Antenatal and Postnatal Support
Netmums provide a database that allows support groups across the UK to register their details and promote themselves, but they do not assess or evaluate any services on their database.
To view a table of services available locally in your area click here.
CAUTION:
Whilst there are some very good “befriender” or “help at home” services operated as Peer Support not all have the necessary Safeguarding Checks or Policies in place to ensure you and your child are protected and safe.
To view our list of recommended services click here.
Online Forums and Peer Support
As well as speaking to a health professional, you may find it helpful to talk to an understanding and sympathetic member of your family or friend about how you are feeling, this is often called Peer Support.
Peer support and sharing common experiences has been proven to alleviate the symptoms of postnatal depression. Peer support is recognised and advised to aid recovery in the NICE guidelines. Some of the benefits found through NICE’s research:
- You will make new friends with shared experience.
- Find hope through over people’s triumphs.
- Build social relationships.
- Experience the relief of speaking freely and sharing in a group.
- Find acceptance of your illness.
- And most importantly realise that ‘you are not alone’.
There are many online and social media sites that provide forums and/or peer support where you can participate or just observe.
Local Support Groups and Befriending Services
You may find it helpful to be open and honest with other new dads or mums. They may be feeling similar and you can have mutual support this can come through:
- Local Support Groups – where you can join in with others completing activities or just talk.
- Befriending Services – where someone will meet with you on a 1-to-1 basis.
Become a member to see our list of recommended services and to access what is available in your area.
