UK Charity Supporting New Mothers Faces Closure

A charity providing essential support to new mothers in the UK is at risk of closing its waiting list due to an urgent need for funding. Frome Birth Talk, which offered counseling to over 155 mothers in 2026, is facing closure unless it can raise £10,000 by Sunday.

Sarah N'Guio, a recipient of the charity's services, described the support as "life-saving." She shared that after a traumatic birth where she nearly died, her mental health deteriorated significantly, leading to postpartum depression and feelings of paranoia. "Without them, I probably would have lost my children and lost my life," N'Guio told BBC Radio Somerset.

Suzy Cristinacce, the charity director, highlighted the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among new mothers, noting that charitable organizations are increasingly relied upon to fill the gaps in support. "More and more people are suffering from mental health problems and the charity sector is helping fill the gaps but the pot is getting smaller and smaller," Cristinacce stated.

According to the Royal College of Midwives, approximately one in four new mothers experiences a mental health issue following childbirth. Cristinacce explained that about half of the charity's funding typically comes from grants. However, recent applications have been unsuccessful, despite positive feedback on their strength. "I don't know what has happened, but I'm applying for grants, the feedback is that our application is very strong but the grants aren't coming in," she said.

To address the immediate funding crisis, the charity has launched a crowdfunding campaign that will remain open until Sunday. While Frome Birth Talk faces these challenges, a spokesperson for the Royal United Hospitals (RUH) Bath confirmed that alternative support is available for women in the area, including a referral pathway into the RUH perinatal mental health team. NHS England has been contacted for comment.