Policy recommendations

Up to half of UK parents experience loneliness during pregnancy and the first two years after giving birth. Perinatal loneliness is a preventable driver of poor perinatal mental health, with significant costs for children, families and public services.

Working with the National Childrens' Bureau, we've published a new briefing setting out the evidence and what government can do about it.

The briefing calls on the Department of Health and Social Care and the Department for Education to:

• Integrate the routine identification of loneliness and perinatal mental health needs into universal services as part of the Best Start in Life Strategy.
• Invest in early intervention through midwifery, health visiting, Family Hubs and the voluntary sector.
• Strengthen parental leave through the ongoing review, particularly for non-birthing parents.
• Expand inclusive support for fathers, LGBTQ+ parents, young parents, and parents facing language barriers.

Read the briefing here