REACH, the only perinatal mental health helpline and support call service in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, offers dedicated lived experience peer support.

Without it the women who access our services for mental health support will have nowhere to go.

They will be left without vital support at an incredibly vulnerable time.

26% percent of mothers experience a mental illness during pregnancy or the first year after birth.

Suicide is the leading cause of maternal death in that first year.

Yet 70% feel unable to disclose their struggles.

Despite its proven impact and essential role in preventing crisis and reducing pressure on statutory services, REACH now faces a critical funding gap following the loss of seven years of NHS investment. The original contract was agreed at a time when we supported 175 families annually. Last year, we supported over 840 women, an almost fivefold increase, yet funding has not kept pace with demand.

Many new mothers suffer in silence, some unaware support exists, others fearing judgment or even the removal of their baby. Our Peer Support Workers, with lived experience, create a safe and understanding space. Women, particularly in deprived areas where stigma persists, are more likely to reach out to us for help.

60% of referrals originate from Health Care professionals showing trust in our services and the fact this service is needed by our community. The other 40% of referrals are mainly from those who have struggled to access statutory support and are often labelled as “not ready to engage” or “non complaint”.

At a fraction of the cost of other helpline services, continued support is a modest but urgent investment to keep this trusted, culturally competent, and in many cases lifesaving service available to the families who depend on it.