Somerset Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health Service

27/08/2026

Use the Childcare Checker to see what support you could get.

Make sure you apply before 31st August!

Find out more about the available childcare support.

26/08/2026

Spaces available for the Home-Start West Somerset evening ante-natal sessions in September at the Minehead Eye. Please book sessions through Home-Start West Somerset, all details on the poster below.

26/08/2026

We are now accepting self referrals for our six week peer support service!

Register now for Flying, our six week 1:1 Peer Support Service. You'll be matched with a Peer Support Volunteer for six individual sessions (over a 7 week period), delivered in the way that works best for you; Zoom, text, email, or phone.

Alongside the sessions, you'll receive a workbook filled with activities to help you reflect, build confidence and continue your journey.

To register your place, please see the link in the comments below.

25/08/2026

Starting a family is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming when you’re not sure where to turn for trusted advice for all your questions.

Best Start in Life brings together NHS -approved information to guide you through every stage of pregnancy and preparing for labour, helping you feel informed, confident and supported.

The website contains so much information on a variety of topics including: healthy eating, what to buy, mental health, morning sickness, smoking, alcohol, hair care, vitamins and supplements, week by week guide, section for partners, exercise.....

Get tips on coping with morning sickness, choosing where to give birth, what to buy for your newborn and plenty more about pregnancy.

24/08/2026

Lots going on this week- all hosted by Mind in Somerset

💙 Looking to connect, try something new, or meet others in your local community?
We've got a range of welcoming groups happening across Somerset next week, including:
📍 Taunton Mind Community Café
🌱 Shepton Mallet Well-Grounded Group
✨ Yeovil Women's Wellbeing Group
🎨 Shepton Mallet Community Day
Whether you'd like a chat over a cuppa, enjoy gardening, explore wellbeing topics, or get creative, there's a space for you.
Everyone is welcome. 💙
Find out more and sign up via our Event Directory: 🌐 https://www.mindinsomerset.org.uk/event-directory

24/08/2026

Classes starting in September!

🌈Rainbow Antenatal Classes 🌈
Antenatal classes for families affected by previous late miscarriage, still birth, or postnatal baby loss.
• 6 sessions with a variety of Health Care Professionals
• Tuesdays 5-7pm at South Petherton Hospital
• Partner or birth partner welcome
• Refreshments included
• Time to meet other parents

For more information or to book a place
please call Lucy Harris, Secretary 01278 454185
or email [email protected]

24/08/2026

It's easy to dismiss perinatal mental health symptoms. Most people have heard of postnatal depression but far fewer know it's just one of several conditions that can affect them and their loved ones from conception through to the early years of parenthood. Here's what perinatal mental health really includes and it's worth noting that some of these conditions affect both men and women.

This isn't an exhaustive list either. Every day we talk to people with a whole range of signs and symptoms that don't always fit neatly into a diagnosis, things like intrusive thoughts, anger, rage, numbness, hyperemesis gravidarum, loneliness and isolation. We can support with those too.

If you're in the perinatal period and you're just feeling off, you don't need to hit rock bottom before you reach out. You don't need to check anything off a list first. If you want to talk, we're here to talk.

If you feel like you have been affected by perinatal mental health, please reach out to us for support by clicking the link in the comments.

There are also a number of other charities who provide support on specific perinatal mental health conditions, including Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP) for postpartum psychosis and Birth Trauma Association - UK
and Make Birth Better for birth trauma.

22/08/2026

A rainbow baby is a baby born after miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, termination for medical reasons, stillbirth or neonatal death.

It is a special day dedicated to honouring children born after a previous pregnancy or infant loss- celebrating the hope and healing they bring while holding space for the babies lost before them

It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the ground-breaking research and care across the country that’s helping bring more rainbow babies into the world.

The rainbow symbol has been used by members of the baby loss community for many years. For some parents, the symbol of a rainbow over-simplifies their experience because the arrival of a rainbow baby doesn’t take away the grief they feel about their loss. But for many parents, rainbows symbolise hope and light after a dark time.

For some people, we know the day might be tough. Wherever you are on your journey, we see you and we’re here for you.

We invite you celebrate by sharing the names of your rainbow babies in the comments below:🌈

21/08/2026

Find out more about the Somerset's New Dads' Supporters Programme at https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/health/new-dads-supporters/

20/08/2026

Getting prepared for school doesn’t happen all at once; it’s built through everyday moments at home, with small steps that can add up.

Getting dressed, eating independently and daily activity are steps that can help your child feel prepared for school. And remember, every child is different – go at your own pace.

Visit Best Start in Life for advice and support.