Charities that support new parents with their health and wellbeing are to receive additional funding.

More than £200,000 will be shared between 11 organisations as part of a £1m Scottish Government commitment to improve the help on offer.

Groups in Glasgow, Midlothian and the Borders are among the recipients, who will also get training in perinatal mental health.

The aim is to boost non-medical support for women, partners and families.

It’s estimated 11,000 people could benefit from this type of service.

Mental health minister Clare Haughey says it is important to recognise the role being played by third sector organisations in supporting parents – and their children:

“Mental illness during and after pregnancy is common, affecting one in five women. We want all mums to get the best possible support, and working with third sector partners is one way we can widen access to services and advice.

“Charities provide an invaluable service by offering peer-to-peer support and counselling and helping to build confidence to help make the leap into parenthood and family life a bit easier. 

“We are investing £50m to improve perinatal and infant mental health services and it is vital that women, young children and families are able to access services in the right place at the right time.”