Like many, Kirsty's story of child birth is traumatic. However, Kirsty has used her experience to build a network and support service that bridges a gap that currently sits in society for new parents.
PANDAS Foundation charity
https://pandasfoundation.org.uk/
This is a charity that supports parents with pre and post natal depression and anxiety . This year they have seen a rise of 240 % of parents accessing PANDAS helpline and support groups. During the global pandemic women have had to go to hospital appointments on their own, go through the Labour phase without their partners, mothers have not been able to receive the much valued care of extended family and friends, There has been no face to face contact with Health Visitors and no access to parent groups. This has left women feeling isolated, resulting in a significant rise in post natal depression and anxiety.
PANDAS have launched a support group in Hampshire for parents in need; offering early intervention , signposting and peer support . In March PANDAS Hampshire we will be hosting virtual support groups, such as; well-being , yoga and self care workshops... This is all free!
As a charity they are unable to facilitate face to face group workshops currently , however they are currently offering the following;
* Weekly peer support zoom calls
* Workshops focusing on well-being and self care
* Workshops with guest hosts to offer advice on sleeping patterns , weaning and play.
PANDAS Hampshire are currently fundraising to ensure that their support groups can continue running every month of the year. PLEASE follow and share the link below to help them continue their work in supporting so many vulnerable parents at this time.
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/kirsty-smillie-1?utm_medium=email&utm_source=ExactTarget&utm_campaign=20210219_
Sponsor Details
It was important that this episodes sponsor was special... So I very please to have the following sponsor on-baord!
The Baby Imprint Co are a specialist creator of unique baby keepsakes; beautifully presented imprints of baby hands & feet. Based on the South Coast, they help create handmade memories that will last a life time.
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The Beautiful Minds Podcast is sponsored by Delivered Social - https://deliveredsocial.com/