In recent years health literature has documented the value of formal referral networks promoting appropriate referral of patients and service collaboration. Despite the significant psychiatric morbidity for women, perinatal psychiatry has not yet promoted such referral networks.

A goal was set by the MMH C/L Psychiatry service to establishing a network of services providing support to mothers with mental health issues. The types of agencies identified for involvement included government and non-government services, as well as Indigenous, ethnic and migrant services, young persons services and support groups.

Attendees from a range of services attended a ½ day forum to exchange information about their programs, waiting lists, costs, accessibility and eligibility criteria. It was noted that gaps existed in service availability for mothers with mental illness particularly when clients presented with multiple comorbid issues.

A representative working party was established aiming to improve cooperation between agencies in Brisbane for women with perinatal disorders and maximise service options. Additional tasks include government lobbying, establishing a database of services and promoting professional development activities.

The Motherhood and Mental Health forum and working party is an innovative response to the major problem of providing services to mothers with multiple difficulties including mental illness. It has the potential to improve service delivery outcomes, reduce costs associated with service duplication and facilitate smoother inter-service referral for women with perinatal disorders.