A new service is being launched in April to provide support for struggling parents-to-be at the NSPCC West London Service Centre in Hanworth.

Pregnancy in Mind will work with women in Hounslow , Ealing and Richmond who are between 12 to 26 weeks pregnant and suffering from mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

The programme will welcome mothers, and their partners, on a four-week rolling basis in a group work support environment at the NSPCC’s Swan House building.

Trained NSPCC staff will help parents with issues from experiencing low moods, worry or stress with guidance to assist them strengthen relationships.

They will also address any concerns and difficulties expectant parents are going through.

Chloe Meaney, a parent who experienced anxiety during her first pregnancy, said: “There are not a lot of services available that address anxiety in pregnancy so the Pregnancy in Mind programme is a great opportunity for parents-to-be to help each other normalise any anxieties or worries.

"Society does not support parents having mental health problems and there is a stigma around it.

“It’s great that the programme encourages people to help each other through peer-to-peer support groups, something that I found that extremely helpful.”

The aim of the service is to build confidence in parenting skills. The group-based programme is open to mums and dads, whether in a couple or their own, who can hear from others with the same experiences.

Anna Holland, NSPCC team manager, said: “For many, pregnancy is a time of joy, however becoming a parent is also a time of great physical, psychological, financial and practical changes, and therefore can be a time of great stress. Fortunately it’s also a time when parents are more open to support.”

For more information contact the NSPCC West London service centre on 020 3763 2333 or email WestLondonServiceCentre@nspcc.org.uk.