Local family support charity, Home-Start Aberdeen has secured £62,874 in funding through the Perinatal and Infant Mental Health (PIMH) Fund, enabling the charity to further support families navigating the challenges of early parenthood.
The PIMH Fund, provided by the Scottish Government and managed by Inspiring Scotland, supports organisations across the country to deliver non-clinical support for babies, parents and carers affected by, or at risk of, perinatal and infant mental health challenges.
The current phase of the fund is supporting 16 organisations across Scotland, with a focus on early intervention, relationship-building and improving wellbeing for both parents and their babies.
Home-Start Aberdeen will use the funding to continue delivering its tailored, relationship-led support to families during pregnancy and the early years, a period widely recognised as critical for both child development and parental mental health.
Across the programme, support is delivered through a combination of peer support, volunteer-led services and practical guidance, helping parents feel less isolated, more confident and better able to meet the needs of their children.
Cameron McCready
Cameron McCready, Chief Executive of Home-Start Aberdeen, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to receive this funding through the Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Fund. The early years of a child’s life can be both joyful and challenging and for many families, additional pressures can have a real impact on mental wellbeing.
“This funding allows us to provide support at a time when it matters most, helping parents feel more confident, less isolated and better equipped to build strong, nurturing relationships with their children. That early support can have a lasting impact on both parent and child.
“We see every day the difference that trusted, relationship-based support can make. Being able to continue and strengthen that support through this funding is incredibly important for the families we work alongside.”
The impact of PIMH-funded services across Scotland has been significant. In a recent six-month period, more than 3,500 people were supported, with the majority reporting improved wellbeing, reduced isolation and stronger relationships with their babies. The funding comes at a time when demand for support continues to grow, with organisations reporting increasingly complex needs among families, including financial strain, trauma, and social isolation.
Home-Start Aberdeen has been supporting families in the city for over 35 years, providing practical and emotional support through its network of trained volunteers. The charity works closely with local partners to ensure families receive the right support at the right time, particularly during the critical early years. For more information visit www.homestartaberdeen.org.uk