Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucester (BNSSG) Specialist Community Perinatal Mental Health Team

Pregnancy and parenthood can be a time full of mixed emotions. Some people are more likely to experience mental health challenges, which may mean they need more support during this time.

About the perinatal mental health team

“Perinatal” is the term used to describe the period of time leading up to the birth of a baby, and the postnatal phase after the birth. We are a specialist team for people who are struggling with their mental health during this period.

Our team is made up of registered mental health practitioners, mental health support workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, parent infant therapists, nursery nurses, a pharmacist and specialist psychiatrists (medical doctors specialising in mental health).

Where do we cover?

We cover Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucester (those with a GP in this catchment area). Our service runs on Monday to Friday 9-5pm

Who do we work with?

You may have longstanding mental health difficulties (including diagnoses such as bipolar disorder, psychosis, eating disorders, OCD, severe anxiety) or may be experiencing mental health difficulties for the first time during the pregnancy or after the birth.

How you can be referred

Professionals (such as midwives, GPs, health visitors, care co-ordinators, voluntary sector organisations and social care) can refer you to our service. We will work together with them to ensure you are fully supported.

We accept referrals from 12 weeks of pregnancy, up until 20 months postnatally.

The referral will be reviewed by members of the team and we will contact you to discuss the best support for your needs.

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What can we offer?

We offer a specialist assessment to find out the best way to support you.
Alongside a mental health practitioner, you will create an individualised care plan to meet your needs.
We will regularly communicate with your maternity service to plan and support your perinatal mental health around the birth.
Nursery nurse support (for practical guidance with your baby).
Groups (for your wellbeing)
Psychology (to help understand your mental health and plan therapies)
Parent infant therapy (to support bonding with your baby)
Occupational therapy (to support you to do more activities that are important to you)
Specialist medical reviews
Advice and guidance on medication in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Peer support workers with lived experience of being supported by our team
Signposting to other appropriate services, including carers and partners support
Pre-pregnancy planning (for those who may benefit from a review of complex medications and risks)

What people say about our service

"Fantastic service all the way through, from pregnancy planning to 7 months after birth. I had every confidence in the expertise, advice and support I was given. I'm extremely grateful to all involved, for their time, insight and kindness".

"The first few months of my daughters life were the hardest I have ever been through and without the support I recieved I don't know where I would be today."