Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced Northern Ireland's refreshed Infant Mental Health Framework and Action Plan on 5 March. The launch occurred at a conference attended by senior representatives from health, education, early years, government, and community organisations.

The framework covers interventions from the antenatal period to babies aged three years. It aims to improve social and emotional development during this time, known as the first 1,000 days of life. In 2024, 19,416 babies were born in Northern Ireland.

Nesbitt stated that experiences in a baby's first 1,000 days affect later outcomes, as the brain develops rapidly and responds to external influences. He emphasized collaborative work across departments, sectors, agencies, and disciplines to support infants' attachments and relationships with caregivers.

Emily Roberts, Interim Director of Nursing at the Public Health Agency, explained that early experiences, including attachment and caregiving quality, influence future mental health, physical health, education, and social skills. She noted that interventions reduce risks from adversity and stress in pregnancy and early childhood.

Roberts added that the 2026 framework expands on the 2016 version through cross-sector collaboration. It addresses public health priorities like reducing inequalities and trauma-informed practice.

Frances Lyons, Head of Research and Evidence and Director in Northern Ireland at the National Children's Bureau, highlighted the need for support for families facing poverty, mental health issues, or trauma. She stressed early intervention from pre-birth to age three to help infants reach potential.

The plan seeks coordinated services across health, education, and community sectors. Twenty-three percent of children live in relative poverty and 20% in absolute poverty before housing costs.