Home-Start North Somerset has held a few walking or postnatal movement sessions in Clarence Park, Weston recently for mums and babies who have been isolated during the pandemic. Since September last year mums have been attending their Mums in Mind Groups on zoom to get to know other local mums and focussing on wellbeing but it’s been a joy to come back together in these warmer months outside some weeks.
We have seen the pandemic leaving families with new babies really isolated. Many have been unable to see health professionals face to face or even access them at all when they have had problems and others have really struggled with leaving their home, even just for a walk. Anxiety has increased significantly and we are working with a lot more parents who we never would have needed our support in the past.
Mothers who attended our last Mums in Mind Group have spoken about the benefit of group support during lockdown.
“The group of ladies were all very open and honest, no one judged and that was something that really helped because each week I would look forward to talking about my difficulties without feeling like I should feel guilty or ashamed.”
“I think I’ve got more confidence as a mother. I understand that perfectionism is not what you should strive for as a mum. I need to be less critical about my own care for my baby. Before I would worry about what people would say and think, especially being on the younger side, but now I’ve dropped that. It was my choice and I’m more confident in that now.”
Home-Start North Somerset also has a trained volunteer service and during the pandemic more of our volunteers have switched from phone and zoom support with their individual families to meeting up in parks to provide emotional support. They have reported that time spent in nature and play spaces has not just lifted their own spirits during lockdown but helped their children’s behaviour and sleep.
To make it easier for parents of young children to access Home-Start’s services they there is now a secure, online referral form on their website. Health professionals can also access a referral form there too. Families will receive a call back within 5 working days, if not sooner to discuss support options.
If you are or know a parent with a child under five who would benefit from our befriending service, group support or our new free baby massage and baby/toddler yoga classes please read here for more information.