Expansion at flagship mental health unit will help more mothers and babies

Photo: Staff Nurse Karen Elmore

Mums with severe maternity related depression and other mental health needs will benefit from an expansion at a mental health unit in Derbyshire.

The flagship mental health unit, the Derbyshire Perinatal Service first opened in 1994 and has increased its capacity from four to six rooms to cope with more inpatient mothers and babies.

The service helps around 50 mums a year by letting them spend an average of six to eight weeks in the unit, helping them cope with pregnancy, birth or post-natal mental illness, whilst supporting them and keeping them with their new baby.

The £30,000 expansion by the Derbyshire Mental Health Services NHS Trust is located in the grounds of the Royal Derby Hospital and further developments including a garden area are planned for next year.

The vitally important unit takes NHS referrals from the rest of the UK as well as Derbyshire.

Senior Sister who manages the unit, Cheryl Sticka said: “This expansion takes our unit into a new era.

“We pride ourselves on offering the best possible care to women in a safe, secure and therapeutic environment – admitting them without delay.

“We ensure that mums are admitted for care alongside their baby, preventing the need for separation. Nurturing this mother-infant relationship is pivotal to our success and ensures that our team stays at the forefront of best practice.”