Perinatal and infant mental health: equalities impact assessment

Stage 1: Framing

Results of framing exercise and extent/level of EQIA required

The evidence around barriers to accessing specialist perinatal mental health services is limited. However, there is good evidence around the barriers of access to mental health services and maternity services. Using this evidence at the moment, while the planning and delivery of specialist perinatal mental health services is in development will provide a basis for how different equality characteristics need to be considered.

The main gaps in evidence are around specific perinatal mental health needs in those with disabilities, those in specific ethnic/belief groups, and those in the LGBTI community. Further engagement with relevant stakeholders in these areas would ensure due regard has been given to these groups. More evidence from these groups would allow their needs to be considered in a Scottish context.

A Fairer Duty Impact Assessment would more adequately cover the inequalities in perinatal mental health in more difficult socio-economic circumstances.

An Islands Impact Assessment would help to clarify the specific barriers services and families face in remote and rural communities.