A specialist NHS mental health service for new parents in Oxfordshire is set to close this month, following a reduction in funding from Oxfordshire County Council. The decision by the Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (ICB) to cease the Infant Parent Perinatal Service (IPPS) has prompted significant concern, with one new mother warning it could have serious implications for safety.
Jai Adhyaru, from Banbury, who received similar perinatal support during and after her pregnancy, highlighted the vital role such services play. She credits the therapy she received for helping her to bond with her daughter, Siya-Katerina, and navigate the profound changes of motherhood. Ms Adhyaru expressed worry that without this specialist support, new parents might not receive the timely help they need, potentially impacting their wellbeing and that of their infants.
The IPPS was previously sustained through a pooled budget, with contributions from both the Thames Valley ICB and Oxfordshire County Council. However, the county council's withdrawal of its annual contribution, estimated to be approximately £700,000, has led to the service's closure. While the Thames Valley ICB states it is collaborating with partners across Oxfordshire to ensure families receive necessary care, the closure leaves a significant gap in provision.
Local charity, the Oxford Parent Infant Project (OPIP), currently offers similar support but has a limited capacity, able to assist only around 200 people annually. This contrasts sharply with an estimated 3,500 families in Oxfordshire who require mental health support during the perinatal period. Dr Karen Bateson, Chief Executive of OPIP, underscored the long-term consequences of delayed intervention, stating that untreated mental health difficulties often become more severe and costly to address. She emphasised that ensuring the emotional wellbeing of caregivers is paramount for a baby's healthy development.
The closure has drawn criticism from Freddie Van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame, who has called on the Secretary of State for Health, James Murray MP, to intervene. Mr Van Mierlo expressed concern that parents might be left without clear pathways to support, and that existing resources may be insufficient to meet the demand. He argued that the withdrawal of IPPS, alongside two other mental health programmes, constitutes a significant alteration to local NHS services. Sam Burrows, Chief System Development and Engagement Officer at Thames Valley ICB, stated in a letter seen by the BBC that he was 'satisfied the decision was taken lawfully' and that 'appropriate services remain available'. Oxfordshire County Council declined to comment.
Perinatal mental health issues, such as postnatal depression, affect a significant number of new parents. NHS data indicates that around 1 in 10 women experience mental health problems during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth. Early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes for both parents and babies, reducing the risk of longer-term issues and supporting healthy family development.
Source: BBC