Mums in Darebin (MiD): Building a support network

The face-to-face connections mums make in a state-assigned “mothers group” are so important. But some new mums miss out; they have older children, they’re new to Darebin or they need support straight away. This project will help these women build the support community they need.

Mums get:
1. A “mothers group”: Six weeks with a qualified facilitator, covering different topics. Modelled on Victorian Government’s New Parent’s Groups.
2. Queer Eye for New Mums: Group pampering days. E.g. Hairdresser specialising in postpartum hair loss.
3. Mental health support: Funding for first postnatal psychology session.
4. Social groups: To make new friends.

They say “it takes a village”. But how do you find a village these days? MiD is an online community of 4,620 members with 41,000 posts/comments/reactions in the past month. Many MiD posts are mums wanting to extend their virtual support network into face-to-face communities… but don’t how.

Community benefits:
• Post-partum: Depression affects 1 in 7 women during the first year after birth.
• Maternal child health system: Relieves strain on the system by building mothers’ social connectedness/mental wellbeing.
• Local businesses: Profits received from being a designated meeting spot.
• Darebin council: Opportunity to cross-promote local programs.