Improved NHS maternity care and postnatal depression support promised

The government has announced plans to improve the standard of care provided to new mothers under the NHS, particularly those suffering from postnatal depression.

An extra 4,200 health visitors being recruited by the government are to receive enhanced training to help them spot the early signs of postnatal depression, while also working with midwives to provide expert joined-up care for new parents.

Meanwhile, a 400 million pound investment is being made in psychological and talking therapies, making it easier for women in need of counselling to receive help.

Other elements of health secretary Andrew Lansley's plans include a new system of assessment for how well the NHS looks after parents who have miscarried or suffered a stillbirth or cot death.

The government is also pledging to give parents more choice over where and how they give birth, while ensuring that every woman has one-to-one midwife care during labour and birth.

These announcements coincide with this week's launch of the NHS Information Service for Parents, a new digital service offering advice to new parents on a wide range of issues.