Rehman has welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement today (11 January 2016) that the number of beds in specialist mother and baby units will increase, following his recent campaign.
Last year, Rehman introduced a Private Members Bill, with the support of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Centre for Mental Health, to ensure an appropriate level of provision of Mother and Baby Units in England.
His campaign received the support of 72 Members of Parliament, who signed a joint letter asking the Prime Minister and the Government to improve specialist care.
In England there is a shortfall of specialist facilities, with many mothers either being unable to access this life-saving care or having to travel hundreds of miles.
Today the Government has announced that £290 million will be invested over the next five years to provide mental healthcare for new mums, including more beds in mother and baby units.
This will help the up to twenty percent of women who are affected by mental health during pregnancy or within a year of having a baby. They are also 33 times more likely to be admitted to a psychiatric ward after giving birth than at any time in their lives.
Rehman said:
"I welcome the announcement today that the Government will be increasing the number of beds available in mother and baby units, which provide expert and lifesaving care.
"Perinatal mental illness is often overlooked and many women have not received the access to specialist care they require. Today’s announcement will go some way to address this.
"I thank all those who have supported my Bill including the 72 MPs from across the political spectrum, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, its President Professor Sir Simon Wessely, Dr Giles Berrisford and the Centre for Mental Health."