Support groups helps reduce double trouble

DESPITE a growing number of multiple births in Ballarat, the Ballarat and Districts Multiple Births Association, or BDMBA, has seen a decline in numbers over recent years.

The group’s new committee, including president Krista Navarro, is looking to change this, and is encouraging families with twins, triplets, or other multiple births to join the group.

“I’m originally from Sydney and when I got pregnant with the twins I joined the multiple births association south-west Sydney but the girls were born during the pandemic so I didn’t get to meet anyone,” said Ms Navarro.

“When I moved, I really wanted the opportunity to connect with people so I transferred my membership and I really wanted to make some likeminded friends.”

The group allows parents who are experiencing similar difficulties to connect with each other and socialise.

“Most of my friends now are from the association,” said Ms Navarro.

“We get together for events to be there for each other because we’re all in the same boat and it’s really different to having a single child.

“It’s this whole network of passing on knowledge and it feels like this big village.”

Amanda Borner is another member of the BDMBA who already had two children before the birth of her twins.

“We were really out of our comfort zone and worried about what was ahead, so we went to a BDMBA information night, and it was so beneficial,” she said.

“We connected with a couple of the other families in similar situation as us with other kids already in the family and they were wonderful at giving advice.

“There are so many different things that people with single children don’t get so we found it really valuable.”

Ms Navarro said the pandemic may be one reason why the group is not seeing a growth in membership, but she encouraged more parents to consider joining.

“I think the pandemic really affected our memberships because people couldn’t attend and it was a really difficult time for a lot of families, so we are seeing the flow on effect now,” she said.

“The willingness to be part of a community is less of a priority and the cost of living is high.

“People were so used to being on their own and have become more resilient on their own.”

Membership to the group costs $35 per year and Ms Navarro said joining the group is well worth this fee.

“We run a program of events for our members like the Halloween disco and the Christmas party which is free,” she said.

“Having those opportunities within our own community to connect and have fun is worth the $35 in my opinion and you also get certain discounts for formular and other little things.”

There are also plans to introduce support for families who may not be able to afford the membership.

“One of my aims as the president is to get some grants and fundraising to support some families who are struggling in our area,” said Ms Navarro.

“If there are any families who are struggling, please reach out and we’ll see if we can help.”

To join the group, visit the BDMBA Facebook or Instagram pages or send a message to [email protected].