MUMS and their babies in East Lancashire will soon have access to more support – thanks to a share of a £25million fund to improve birthing environments.

Maternity services in the North West will be able to bid for ensuite facilities, rooms where dads can stay overnight or a wider range of facilities available like birthing pools. As a further boost to new parents, the NHS Information Service for Parents is being expanded to cover older babies up to six months old, and by April 2013 will be further expanded to cover children up to 18 months of age.

Health Minister Dr Dan Poulter said: “A new arrival in the family is a joyous time but can present challenges for mums and families, particularly new families. I want to help women and their partners in the North West as much as possible.”

The Information Service provides parents with free advice that parents can trust through regular emails, videos and texts on the issues that matter most to them – including all aspects of pregnancy and baby care, bonding and relationship support.

The service includes emails and video material on post-natal depression so that women and their partners can spot the signs of postnatal depression.

Dr Poulter said: “Women with postnatal depression need care and support, not stigma. That’s why early diagnosis for this traumatic condition and support for parents is so important.

“There will now be £25 million available to improve maternity facilities but not a penny of this will be given out unless there is evidence that women have been asked about the changes they want in their local areas."