In a significant development, Belfast City Hospital has been designated as the location for Northern Ireland’s inaugural specialized Mother and Baby perinatal unit. This milestone follows an update from the Department of Health on the implementation of community perinatal mental services throughout Northern Ireland.
Former Health Minister Robin Swann’s commitments have culminated in all five health trusts establishing dedicated community perinatal mental health teams. These teams provide vital support and interventions to women from pregnancy through the first year after childbirth, contributing to the overall health and well-being of women, their children, and their extended families.
Historically, Northern Ireland has been the sole UK region without a specialized mother and baby unit. This circumstance is set to change with the confirmation from the Department of Health that Belfast City Hospital has been identified to host the region’s inaugural unit. Mother and baby units are specialized mental health wards designed for mothers to receive treatment while staying with their infants. The staff at these units not only focus on the patient’s treatment but also extend additional support in caring for their babies.
Addressing the next steps, Peter May, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health, expressed satisfaction with the progress made in implementing the community perinatal mental health service over the past 12 months. He highlighted the commitment demonstrated by each team in ensuring the success of the service. The Belfast Trust is now tasked with preparing a business case for the proposed regional unit on the Belfast City Hospital premises. May acknowledged the positive strides but emphasized the financial challenges, indicating that the timeline for the unit’s establishment would hinge on securing the necessary funding for construction and operation.
Dr. Judith O’Neill, Chair of the Perinatal Faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists NI, welcomed the announcement, marking it as a significant achievement after years of advocacy.
