Newport Welcomes PANDAS Foundation's New Parent Mental Health Support Group
The PANDAS Foundation, a leading perinatal mental health charity in the UK, has officially opened a new support group in Newport, Gwent. This initiative is designed to assist parents and carers who may be facing mental health challenges, covering the entire journey from conception through birth and beyond.
Free Face-to-Face Support Available
Starting from Tuesday, April 14, parents and carers in the Newport area can access a free face-to-face support group. This group aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can connect, share experiences, and receive guidance on mental health issues.
The support groups are led by trained and supervised facilitators from the PANDAS Foundation. They offer a calm community space where parents or carers can bring their babies or toddlers, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation.
Expansion Plans and Community Impact
Thanks to funding from The Balcombe Trust, the PANDAS Foundation plans to roll out additional group openings in 2026, extending their reach to more families across the UK. This expansion underscores the charity's commitment to ensuring that no parent, family, or carer feels alone in their struggles.
Annie Belasco, CEO of the PANDAS Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm: "We are incredibly proud and excited to welcome our newest group in Newport to this wonderful charity. We know through the work that we have already carried out in many other areas of the UK, how invaluable our face-to-face support groups are in supporting the local community."
A Bridge to NHS Services
The PANDAS Foundation serves as a vital bridge between the NHS and parents by offering peer support that is both free and without a waiting list. This approach ensures that help is accessible and tailored to individual needs, complementing existing healthcare services.
Belasco also extended her gratitude to key supporters: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank The Balcombe Trust, our group facilitators, Kate and Kayleigh. And huge thanks to the Dolman Theatre for supporting the running of this group."
The group meets in Newport, Gwent, providing a dedicated location for this essential community resource. With a variety of support services available, the PANDAS Foundation continues to champion mental health awareness and assistance for families nationwide.
