The purpose of the Christy Ruddell Charity is to promote and protect the physical and mental health of sufferers of psychosis and mental health problems in families with babies and young children through the provision of financial assistance, support, education and practical advice. We also aim to advance the education of the general public in all areas relating to recognition and early management of maternal psychosis.

The community needs to be aware of what services are available to them in a time of crisis and, most importantly, how to access those services to ensure they are timely and effective. Local GPs, Community Hospitals and A&E have access to pathways that can ensure sensitive cases are handled quickly to protect the patient and family. The community needs to have the confidence to make a referral if a friend or relative displays behaviour which causes concern

As a result of the work of the Christy Ruddell Charity the community will have improved awareness of the background characteristics and risk factors associated with psychosis, particularly with mothers who have no previous history of psychiatric disorder, how to recognise it and who to contact. Focus groups, awareness training and information leaflets will impact through a network of organisations within the community that work with vulnerable adults to promote physical and mental wellbeing.