Ipswich’s More Than Mum project, which is supported by the Borough Council, is reporting growing success.
The project is run by the Future Female Society Community Interest Company and headed up by Kim Trotter. Kim says an extra group has been established and the feedback from local mothers has been “very positive”.
More Than Mum is aimed to help mothers to develop their confidence and self-belief and so raise their aspirations to start or restart a career.
Kim highlighted one client, who told her: “Before I took part I had a volunteer who helped me get out of the house due to suffering with depression. I met Kim through a play group at a church but because I was so shy she offered to meet me at a cafe to help me get to know her. For the first two weeks I couldn’t start due to being scared but once I got there everyone made me feel so welcome.
“My first lesson was tough but it was an eye opener. I discovered a bit about myself … and within time I did start to come out of my shell a bit. Although I still felt scared I was excited, too, and did baking and managed the cake stall and sorted out the on Facebook. I really enjoyed myself and it gave me a whole new set of confidence.”
Kim said: “This is a very moving account and testimony to the progress we are making. I am grateful to the Council for its support and this has helped us to achieve our goals in the community.”
The project was funded by the Council’s North East Area Committee, whose Chair, Councillor Shelly Darwin, commented: “Motherhood can be joyful but we must not forget it can also be exhausting, lonely and isolating. I'm proud that we could support this important project and proud of the achievements of Kim and the women involved. It is a pleasure to hear about the successes and exciting future prospects.”
To contact Kim please email kim@futurefemalesociety.org or call 07498 739 459
Cllr Shelly Darwin, tel: 07950641063
Cllr Ian Fisher, opposition Conservative Group leader, tel: 01473 410124
Cllr Inga Lockington, opposition Liberal Democrat Group Leader, tel: 01473 213444
