A specialised parent and baby unit in Stafford is undergoing renovation work.

The Brockington Parent and Baby Unit (PBU), at St George's Hospital, provides perinatal inpatient mental health services to women who are struggling with psychological and emotional challenges during pregnancy and early motherhood.

The unit allows new mothers to care for their babies while recovering from pre- and postnatal illnesses in a homely and supportive atmosphere.

Private bedrooms, clinical spaces for treatment and therapy and a private outdoor garden are amongst facilities currently in place at the unit

Ongoing renovation work, which is due to be completed in December, aims to enhance the experience of mothers and babies.

The renovations include adapted clinical spaces to create a more welcoming and therapeutic environment, added en-suite facilities to bedrooms and upgraded temperature regulation systems.

As this week is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health Service Manager, Victoria Dyson-Lynne took the time to speak about the important role of the PBU.

She said: "Every member of our team understands the struggles women and families can experience before, during and after pregnancy so it's particularly important to raise awareness of this during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week and highlight the information, care and support available.

advertisement

"Last year saw us celebrate the 20th anniversary of Brockington and these renovations provide a heartening look to the future as the unit continues to evolve, and ensure it not only provides the best care possible to our patients but serves as a leading example of what exceptional perinatal mental health support for mother, child and the whole family can look like."