The program helping expectant parents build a village

AFTER helping dozens of local mums find connection last year, Bloom and Connect will return in February, giving expectant parents a chance to build lasting support networks before their babies arrive.

Not-for-profit organisation Parent Thread has partnered with Torquay Community House and the Inger Rice Foundation to continue facilitating the program, which focuses on reducing the risk of loneliness and isolation for expectant parents.

Parent Thread founder and director, Eleisha Casañas said she was inspired by her work in social isolation, as well as personal experiences of pregnancy and parenthood.

“When I became a parent, I realised what a big life transition that is, and how important it is to have people around you who are going through the same,” she said.

Parent Thread supports parents and families through social engagement and community events. Photo: SUPPLIED

She said, “when you’re going through life transitions, you’re at a higher risk of loneliness… and becoming a parent is a pretty big life transition.”

Casañas explained that fostering social connection early may act as a “protective factor” against loneliness for these parents before their babies arrive.

“It’s not that easy to go out and make new friends when you’re trying to care for a new-born,” she added.

In addition to providing a platform for social connection, local experts have donated their time to provide participants with workshops, including one dad’s and partners session with men’s mental health specialist, Mark Gee.

Casañas said feedback on the program has been highly positive,

Bloom and Connect offers expectant mothers a chance to learn and grow, including a combination of social activities and guest speakers throughout the program. Photo: SUPPLIED

“People felt it was such a relief… to be able to talk to others who were going through the same thing.”

One mum reflected after the program on how the advice she received during the program had helped after her baby was born.

“One of the things she took away from it was following her gut instincts… something that the other mums had talked about,” Casañas said.

“The effects of the program go beyond just those weeks,” she said, “I think the things that people are learning and the connections they’re making go a lot deeper, which is really amazing to hear.”

Bloom and Connect will run for six weeks from February 15 at Torquay Community House.

Fore more information, head to linktr.ee/parent_thread