We are always trying to improve and expand our Caring Mums program which continues to support and empower new Mothers when they need it most.

A large component of expanding our program is educating local services about Caring Mums. Over the last few months, we presented to seven different groups of referrers. The presentations were to the Maternal Child and Health Nurses from the cities of Port Phillip, Glen Eira, Bayside and Kingston, as well as to the Monash Mother/Baby Unit and Star Health.

The feedback from the presentations was incredibly positive. Many of our referrers reported on their patients who are involved in the program deriving great benefit from the warm and trusting connection they made with their Caring Mums’ volunteer.

Part of our improvement strategy for Caring Mums includes continued professional development of our volunteers. In August, we held our second 2-day Mental Health First Aid course run by Caring Mums’ supervisor and MHFA certified trainer, Ellie Smorgon. Twenty of our volunteers attended this course, further enhancing their skills for supporting someone struggling with mental health issues.

Improving and expanding the Caring mums program is always at the forefront so we can continue to provide emotional support to as many mums as we can get to. In August alone, we managed to match another 11 mums with a Caring Mums volunteer. We hope to see these numbers continue to rise.