Perinatal Wellbeing Canterbury provides free community-based peer support for parents in Canterbury who are experiencing a decline in mental wellbeing relating to, or resulting from, pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting within the first 2,000 days (Pregnancy to 5 years).
Please note: Our support is non-clinical and designed for parents with a mild to moderate decline in mental wellbeing. We are not a crisis service and do not have after hours or weekend services.
To keep our groups safe spaces we require a referral.
Self referrals are welcome.
Support
Wellbeing Groups
Providing safe and supportive environments in which parents receive peer support and connection, and learn how to manage and minimise mental wellbeing challenges related to pregnancy, childbirth and parenting during the first 2,000 days.
- Topics include self-care, managing aspects of anxiety and depression such as anger, guilt and grief, coping with loss of identity, healthy communication, and working towards recovery
- There is always time for parents to chat with each other and talk about what is ‘on top’ for them each week
- Led by peer supporters with lived experience who represent the parents in each group. For example, our Asian Wellbeing Group is facilitated by a Mandarin and Cantonese speaking Chinese Peer Supporter
- Held in person at various locations throughout Canterbury, and online for those parents who are unable to attend in person
- Available for pregnant and postnatal parents
Facebook Connection Group
This private group, for our past and current clients, gives them a safe environment to continue to share their experiences, concerns and have an ongoing connection with other parents who have similar experiences. Moderated by our Peer Supporters.
Awareness
Regular talks to groups of parents and perinatal health professionals, enabling them to recognise perinatal mental decline and how to engage with overwhelmed parents and support them to seek appropriate help.
If you would like us to speak at your group or event please contact Erin Manning
Advocacy
Connection with clinical and community organisations to ensure parents can be referred for appropriate support if needed. Liaison with other agencies, or extended whānau, on behalf of our parents if required.
To find out more about any of our services
Please email support@perinatalwellbeing.org.nz or ph 021 131 4352.
Referrals can be made here