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RCM welcomes call from Duchess for more support for new parents

By Gemma Murphy on 27 November 2020 Maternity Services Midwifery Public Health Royal Family Midwives Women Wellbeing Of Women Pregnancy Expectant Mothers NHS NHS Staff

The Royal College (RCM) has welcomed the Duchess of Cambridge's call for more support for new parents.

The college says the results of The Royal Foundations early years survey which will add to the growing body of evidence that tackling issues and supporting parents from pregnancy has a lasting impact on their own physical and mental health and that of their children’s.

Just this week the RCM launched a report to address the needs of women experiencing severe and multiple disadvantages during pregnancy.

 

Gill Walton, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives, said: The results of this survey really shine a light on how difficult experiences during childhood can often be the cause of poor mental health, homelessness, and addiction. This really chimes with a report the RCM published this week that recommends stepping up support for women who have experienced childhood trauma, those who are vulnerable or are suffering with their mental health, because often these women are at greater risk during pregnancy and need more support from their midwives. If we work together there is a unique opportunity that with the right intervention and support during pregnancy, we can a break traumatic life cycle and in turn give a baby the best possible start in life.”

The RCM says in to order to develop services and support for those that need it most it’s vital we listen and learn to the experience of women and their families so it welcomes this survey and the valuable public perceptions and key insights it provides.

Gill added:

“Becoming a parent can be amazing, but it can also be an anxious time particularly in the middle of a global pandemic and we are aware that this was challenging to many new parents. Lockdown restrictions have naturally impacted on new mothers, some of whom have felt lonely and struggled with their mental health during pregnancy and postnatally. I would urge you to speak to your midwife or GP immediately if you are feeling that way. Equally it’s just as important that all women ensure they attend their 6-8-week perinatal mental health check.

 

ENDS

 

To contact the RCM media office call 020 7312 3456 or email [email protected]

 

Notes to Editors

 



 

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