Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department is taking steps to increase levels of mental health (a) support and (b) assessments for fathers during perinatal periods.

Support is already available for expectant and new fathers and partners who experience mental health difficulties during the perinatal period. Partners of women accessing specialist perinatal and maternal mental health services should be offered an evidence-based assessment for their own mental health and signposting to support as required. In January 2025, the Department announced £126 million for the continuation of the Family Hubs and Start for Life programmes in 2025/26 in 75 local authorities with high levels of deprivation. This includes £36.5 million for bespoke perinatal mental health and parent-infant relationship support, including for fathers.

In addition, NHS Talking Therapies services are also available for fathers and partners who need support with any mental health problems during the perinatal period. Anyone can refer themselves online via the National Health Service website or by contacting their general practitioner.