Loneliness can be something many new mums face, especially when their partner returns to work and they may struggle to find a place for socialisation.
One community centre in Derry is looking to tackle loneliness in new mums through a new walking group.
After establishing parent and baby yoga and massage classes, Joan Collumb, project co-ordinator of Culmore Community Partnership, alongside Laura Mitchell of the Western Trust, saw the potential for a space for parents to just socialise and support each other.
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They wanted to use Laura's expertise of a qualified walking group leader and form a walking group to help new mums socialise and to boost their mental health.
Joan told MyDerry : "The need was there massively, all our classes were over subscribed and there was a great reception for our new walking group.
"Especially for parents of 1-2 year olds, they have had it hard with next to no interaction or physical groups to meet up with and chat to.
"The motivation of parents wanting to go on these walks was huge, because of the pandemic and partners now away working back in offices it was hugely isolating for parents so we wanted to provide a safe space for them to come and chat.
"It has been incredibly important, the Culmore area has nothing for parents to even just come together, they don’t even have a playpark which often provides a social aspect for parents as well.
"There was no facility for socialisation of new parents at all before our hub was set up. I think it is absolutely vital for parents to have this space."
The community hub launched their new mums walking group this week and it has been a tremendous success already.
Joan said: "It has been great, we just had our initial session and it was fantastic. One mum who came along said she loves walking but never had anyone to walk with, other people living in the area had never been down by Culmore Point so they are out seeing something new.
"There has been a real buzz, people are spreading the word and saying to their friends to come along.
"We are not restricted by catchment area so we can go with what the parents want to do and where they want to go. If they want to go to St.Columb’s Park we can bring tea and refreshments to enjoy. Our options are endless."
For Joan and the team in Culmore Community Partnership, they want to help new mums and expectant mums beat loneliness and isolation that many of them felt during the pandemic.
Their hub also provides a garden space that parents can use to just sit in and relax in.
Joan said: "It benefits everyone’s mental health, it boosts the moods of everyone and we start them early and keep them going. We encourage those who are expecting to join, to keep their fitness up and to get advice from other new mums and to have that group they can come to when they deliver.
"Parents supporting each other can be the best thing, knowing others are in the same situation as you and can help you get through any difficulties. We provided the space but it has brought so much more to the parents in terms of support.
"It is an incredibly easy-going environment and open to all. We meet every Tuesday at 9.30am until 10.45am, pop in and call in and see us and hear about our other programmes or get in touch on social media as well!"
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