I’ve recently been introduced to the Sunflower Family Support Group, a safe, non-judgemental peer support organisation, created to encourage, guide, help and assist those who have had or are suffering with a perinatal mental illness.
I was made aware of the group by Matthew Turner from Staffordshire Council of Voluntary Youth Services (SCVYS) and soon found that the strength, bravery and compassion of its founders, Amy Hill and Hayley Brown, is outstanding.
The group was set up in January 2019 after mothers Amy and Hayley, who themselves have both suffered with postnatal depression, chose to share their stories to support others and inspire hopes of recovery.
Offering care and kindness as well as practical methods and activities to promote positive mental wellbeing and support the parent and baby bond – such as sharing tips, mindfulness exercises relaxation and information about services and activities available locally and nationally – Sunflower Family Support can provide a real lifeline to many mothers affected by perinatal mental health problems of all kinds.
I feel inspired and moved by what the group is doing and have already had a follow-up meeting with Amy and Hayley and their families to see how I can help promote their organisation, its ethos, and supportive capabilities.
The group meets every Thursday from 10am – 11.30am at Spark, Springhill Academy, Mossbank Avenue, Burntwood, WS7 4UN, and every Friday from 10am – 12pm at Families First, Faraday Road, Stafford, ST16 3NQ.
There’s no need to book, just call by and join the group for a chat. All babies, children, families and friends are welcome, with complete understanding that it can be difficult joining a group.
Parking is free at both venues, although not guaranteed. To get in touch, email sunflowerfamilys@yahoo.com or visit https://www.facebook.com/sunflowerfamilysupport/.