The purpose of Mum2Mum is to come alongside young mums, stand in the gap for them, build relationships, and help them to engage with other appropriate groups and services.

Our aim is that this long-term, consistent, non-judgmental loving support and encouragement will build self-esteem and confidence, reduce social isolation and improve emotional health and wellbeing.

Princess Project befrienders are volunteers from local churches. They have parenting experience themselves, and are from all walks of life. They have been through a selection process that includes taking part in initial and ongoing training, and being interviewed. References are obtained, and DBS checks carried out for all befrienders.

Once they have been put in touch with one another, the befriender and mum will start meeting regularly, building a relationship in which the mum’s needs and concerns can be discussed and addressed. Where they meet and when can vary depending on each pair- from a soft play centre, to a walk in the park, to a cup of tea in a cafe, to a home visit- we have mums and befrienders meeting in all sorts of locations!

Sometimes just having someone to talk to, and share your concerns and struggles with, makes all the difference, and is all that is needed. If there are other agencies working with the family however, such as social services, early help, or schools workers, a befriender can come alongside the mum and be part of that network of support as a friendly, non-judgmental, consistent presence.

Our befrienders will help to signpost mums to the agencies or services who can best help them with any specific issues that may arise, for example with regards to benefits advice or domestic abuse support.