Chiswick welcomes a new, free peer-to-peer support group dedicated to parents and carers navigating mental health challenges during pregnancy or after birth. This initiative offers a compassionate and understanding environment for those in need.
The inaugural session takes place today, 9th September, at Duck & Ball, Riverside Drive (W4 2SP). Meetings will continue on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. The group warmly invites all local parents and carers, with babies and young children welcome to join.
Led by trained volunteer Katie, and supported by the national charity PANDAS Foundation UK, the group provides a safe, non-judgmental space for sharing experiences and connecting with others who understand the complexities of perinatal mental health. Katie, drawing from her own experiences with postpartum anxiety and depression, facilitates discussions, while PANDAS offers professional guidance and access to local and national resources.
Perinatal mental health issues impact approximately one in five parents, highlighting the importance of early community-based support—a priority for both the NHS and the government. By offering timely emotional support in a relaxed riverside setting, the Chiswick group aims to alleviate feelings of isolation, encourage ongoing engagement with broader care plans, and ultimately reduce the necessity for more intensive interventions.
Since 2012, PANDAS Foundation UK has been a beacon of support for families affected by perinatal mental health challenges. Through a national helpline, email and text support, online forums, and over 50 local peer groups across England, PANDAS continues to make a significant difference in the lives of many.