4 days ago
Free wellbeing workshops for mums launched in Stroud
A MOTHER-led support network is launching a new wellbeing programme to help women feel connected, empowered and understood.
The Stroud Motherhood Collective will begin offering free creative and wellbeing workshops across the Stroud district thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign through Stroud District Council's new Stroudfunding scheme.
Catherine Forrester, founder and co-director of the Stroud Motherhood Collective, said: "The pressures and expectations on modern mothers are unprecedented, at a time that community and state support has dropped away from new parents.
"One in five mothers in the UK last year experienced a diagnosed mental health condition, with many many more suffering in silence.
"Suicide is now the leading cause of death in mothers in the year after birth.
"We are working to create more spaces in which mothers can be really honest about their experience, find support from others, and learn new skills that support wellbeing."
Launched in 2023, the collective already runs regular peer support groups in partnership with Stroud Maternity Unit, supported by the Stroud Hospitals League of Friends.
Following last year's successful Crowdfunder, which included £3,000 from Stroud District Council, the group is now introducing a year-long programme.
Each month, mothers will be able to participate in a different creative or wellbeing activity, including singing, creative writing, journaling, dance movement, massage and guided relaxation.
Every session will also offer peer support, giving mothers a safe, facilitated space to discuss the realities of motherhood.
Upcoming sessions include a creative writing morning at Stroud Library on Saturday, June 7, from 10am to 11.30am, and a creative journaling group at Oakbrook Community Farm on Sunday, July 6, from 10am to 12pm.
Ms Forrester said: "We are thrilled to be launching this year-long programme of events to support mothers and help them create space, connection and joy."
The sessions are open to pregnant women and mothers of children of any age.
For more information or to book a space visit the Stroud Motherhood website.
