Guest speaker on Birmingham’s Unity Radio
On Tuesday 8th December, Rachel Pardoe (child psychotherapist and AiMH Bristol Hub lead) was invited to be a guest speaker on Birmingham’s Unity Radio ‘parenting hour’ programme. The weekly feature is hosted by Kathleen Roche-Nagi (Managing Director of Approachable Parenting and AiMH Birmingham and West Midlands Hub lead). Rachel Pardoe invited Rachel Allender (child psychotherapist and AiMH Bristol Hub member) to join her on the show.
What followed was a lively discussion around infant mental health, parenting during the Covid-19 pandemic and supporting parents and children within the local, largely Muslim, community. Listeners were able to call in, one of whom was a therapist working on the Approachable Parenting programme.
Thoughts were given to cultural roles and expectations, how able parents feel to ask for help when they are struggling, and what professionals can do to support families, particularly at the moment when services and resources are sadly so limited. We discussed some of the ways parents can help to connect to and interact with their children. These included ‘being with’ in child-led play, watching, waiting and wondering – showing curiosity about what their child might be doing, thinking and feeling and being emotionally and physically present. We emphasised that there is no such thing as ‘perfect parenting’, and that human contact is more important than toys – a message which is particularly important given the financial pressures on parents as a result of Covid-19.
This was a really enjoyable experience, and it was fantastic to hear about some of the wonderful parent-infant work taking place in the West Midlands.
The programme was repeated on Sunday 13th December.
Other News
AiMH UK Awards 2025! 🌟
We’re excited to announce the launch of the AiMH UK Awards 2025, celebrating outstanding contributions to the field of infant mental health! 🌟
These awards recognise individuals and teams who go above and beyond to support the emotional well-being of infants, young children, and their families. 💜
🏆 Know someone making a difference? Nominations are now open!
📅 Deadline: Sunday 8 February 2026
👉 Awards presented at: AiMH UK AGM & Awards 2026 with guest speaker – Wednesday 25 February 2026
For full information go to the AiMH UK Awards page
Lunchtime Skills Box Session with Rebecca Chilvers
Thursday 23rd April 1.00PM - 2.00PM
Supporting World Infant, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Day
Not alone in NICU: A Compassionate Companion for Parents of a baby in Neonatal Care’
Join Rebecca Chilvers, Consultant Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in independent practice for a powerful Skills Box session exploring the impact of the neonatal environment on babies and families, approaches that empower parents, and ways to support early relationships under stress. Learn how to help families navigate the transition into parenthood in NICU and make sense of their experiences as their baby grows.
✨Today’s the Day! The AiMH UK National Conference is Here ✨
We’re excited to come together today for the AiMH UK National Conference, where practitioners, researchers, key workers and leaders in infant mental health unite to share knowledge, deepen understanding, and strengthen support for babies, young children, and their families.
This conference is a powerful reminder of why our work matters — building foundations for healthy relationships, resilience, and lifelong wellbeing.
Looking forward to a day of inspiring speakers, meaningful conversations, and connection across our community.
Let’s make it one to remember! 💛👶🧠
AiMH UK Autum Newsletter
AiMH UK Autumn Newsletter 2025
Discover the latest updates in the AiMH UK Autumn Newsletter! Packed with news, upcoming events, and latest IMH updates to support infant mental health professionals. Stay informed and connected with the AiMH community!
AiMH UK Newsletter – Summer Edition
Welcome to the AiMH UK Summer newsletter, where we share updates, insights and opportunities from across the infant mental-health field.
New Online Course: Babies in Mind – Why the Parent’s Mind Matters
Now 30% off for members!
AiMH UK, in collaboration with the University of Oxford, invites you to join this premium online course featured on the FutureLearn Website
The Fatherhood Institute – ‘Looking out for Dad’ Campaign
The Fatherhood Institute has launched an important new campaign, ‘Looking Out for Dad’, calling on the UK government to prioritise fathers’ health and well-being. Add your name to their letter addressed to the Secretary of State for Health, Wes Streeting.
TODAYS THE DAY!
Announcing the AiMH UK Awards Winners!
A huge congratulations to all the winners!
Your dedication and invaluable contributions are making a profound impact on infant mental health and positively transforming the lives of families across the UK!
President Jane Barlow re-elected onto the 1001 Days Steering Group
The 1001 days movement is a group of organisations and professionals working together to campaign about the importance of the emotional wellbeing of babies.
Congratulations on your re-election - from All at AiMH UK
New Best Practice Factsheet on Infant Sleep
Now available to view and download for Members.
This BPG Factsheet considers infant sleep through the lens of infant mental health. It examines the current state of evidence with regard to infant sleep, and draws on a multi-disciplinary literature intended to help practitioners promote Neuroprotective Developmental Care when supporting infants and parents.
AiMH UK AGM, Awards Ceremony & Presentation
Join us in celebrating the AiMH UK Awards, a tribute to excellence in infant mental health and hear from Professor Jane Barlow, focusing on safeguarding babies and promoting their emotional well-being for our latest Best Practice Factsheet
Victory for the Neonatal Leave Campaign! · Change.org
Some Lovely news! 🙂
t’s inspiring to see positive change happen for such an important cause. Neonatal leave can make a real difference for families dealing with premature births, offering them the time and support they truly need during those critical early moments. This victory will no doubt bring relief and hope to many parents and caregivers. 🌟
Read the article here: https://www.change.org/p/extend-parental-leave-for-parents-of-premature-babies/u/33187309
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