§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what systems are in place to ensure early detection of post-natal depression in mothers of young babies; and what support is given to such mothers. [151376]
§ Mr. HuttonThe National Service Framework for mental health sets out at standards two and three the action needed to deliver better primary mental health care, and to ensure consistent advice and help for people with mental health needs, including primary care services for individuals with severe mental illness. The NSF requires health authorities to have protocols agreed and implemented between primary care and specialised services for the management of post-natal depression by April 2001. Work is being taken forward following publication of the NHS Plan and through the Workforce Action Team, to agree the workforce and education requirements to deliver the NSF, and to strengthen mental health in primary care.