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Why this training matters
In the UK, fewer than 30 specialised parent–infant teams exist, meaning most babies will never have access to expert support. Yet 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers experience perinatal mental health difficulties. The early relationship between parent and baby is the most powerful protective factor we have and everyone working with families can help strengthen it.
• 42% of CAMHS services in England will not see a child under two.
• The long-term cost to society from perinatal mental health difficulties is £8.1 billion per year.
• Early relational support saves money and changes lives.
The R.I.S.K. Training is your opportunity to appreciate, act and advocate, to see the world through the baby’s eyes and respond in ways that protect and nurture the caregiving relationship and environment.
“I didn’t realise how much difference small, compassionate actions could make until this session. It reminded me why I do this work.”
— R.I.S.K. Training Participant, Dorset
Make your impact count
This session sits at the heart of the UK’s commitment to give every child the Best Start in Life. It aligns with national and global priorities:
• UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 – Good Health and Wellbeing
• NHS Long Term Plan – Early intervention for perinatal and infant mental health
• Family Hubs & Start for Life Programme – Integrated help for every family
• Healthy Child Programme – Universal prevention and early support
But this isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about you and the real difference you make every time you meet a parent and baby.
What you’ll gain
Knowledge: Notice and understand how early relationships shape mental health and development.
Confidence: Recognise small signs that may signal a family needs help.
Practical tools: Learn safe, compassionate ways to start conversations.
Connection: Know when and how to share concerns or refer on.
Recognition: Receive a Certificate of Completion, proof that you’re doing your part.
No pre- or post-work. No long assignments. Just one powerful 90-minute session, ideal for anyone working with infants who want to know they’re making a positive and lasting impact.
What participants said:
• “I feel more confident recognising when something’s not right.”
• “I understand how to ask questions without fear of offending.”
• “It showed me that I can act early — even when it’s not a safeguarding case.”
100% of participants said they would recommend the session to colleagues.
Who should attend
Anyone working with or alongside families, especially those supporting children under two:
Family Hub and Children’s Centre teams • Midwives • Health Visitors • Early Years Practitioners • Social Care Staff • Community Volunteers • Peer Supporters
About DorPIP
DorPIP (Dorset Parent Infant Partnership) is an award-winning specialist charity helping parents and babies build strong, loving relationships from conception to age two. We work across Dorset through Family Hubs, NHS partnerships, and community networks to deliver early, relationship-based support that transforms lives. As the leading voice for Infant Mental Health in Dorset, our training connects policy to practice, helping every professional play their part in giving babies the best start in life.
Practical details
Duration: 90 minutes
Format: Live, interactive session (online or in-person)
Certificate: Issued on completion
Investment: £25 per person
Want to continue your learning?
Take your next step with our CPD-accredited Infant Mental Health Competency Framework (IMHCF) training and become a recognised leader in infant mental health practice.
Find out more → www.dorpip.org.uk/training-courses