Peer support for women with severe perinatal mental illness
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Peer support for women with severe mental illness during the perinatal period: A realist investigation
IRAS ID
351412
Contact name
Annette Bauer
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
London School of Economics and Political Science
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
In England, women admitted to Mother and Baby Units (MBUs) with severe mental illness should be offered peer support. However, peer support is provided differently in different regions. More knowledge is needed on which approach works best, for whom, and how they can be good value for money.
What is the aim?This research will examine a peer support approach taken by a charity called Action on Postpartum Psychosis at several MBUs in the country to learn how to best run it effectively to benefit these women. The approach has shown promising effects for women and families, many of whom feel they might not have survived without the support. From what we know, the approach addresses factors known to be linked to improving women’s and families’ lives in important ways. For example, it offers many ways for women and families to stay engaged. This research seeks to understand in detail how the approach works, for whom and the resources needed to deliver it. The method we use is commonly used for evaluating support that takes many shapes and forms, and where it is not easy to explain how or why it works.
What will we do and what difference does it make?
We will do the research at three MBUs in England which cover areas of high need. At each site we will talk to women using peer support, those providing the support and those managing and funding the approach. We will develop a rich understanding of the difference the approach makes for women and families and investigate the factors that influence its success, and limitations.
Throughout the research, we will work collaboratively with those involved in the research and will receive advice from people with lived experience and professional knowledge.REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SW/0014
Date of REC Opinion
12 Feb 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion