Peer support offers a unique and valuable contribution to parents' and babies’ wellbeing.
Perinatal peer support, where mums and dads volunteer to help other new parents, offers a unique and invaluable contribution to healthier pregnancies, positive births and the best start for babies.
It offers something different to public services. Informal support and reassurance from another (trained and supervised) parent who listens and builds trust, can make all the difference. It builds confidence, reduces social isolation, helps nip early difficulties in the bud and reduces pressure on maternity and early years services.
It enhances even further the value that professionals bring. We know that when these initiatives are managed, resourced and delivered well, there are huge benefits not only to mothers, fathers, partners, and babies but also to professionals involved in their care.
Through the reassurance of lived experience, peer supporters can reach and be accepted by parents, some of whom may be reluctant to engage with professionals: