The overall aim of the programme is to reduce young mums social isolation, whilst offering both peer and professional support in a relaxed, non threatening, non judgmental environment. Each 2 hour session aims to educate, empower and provide guidance and practical support to help the young mums make appropriate life choices for themselves and their children; enabling them to gain understanding and confidence in a variety of relevant subject areas, such as: child development; dental care, nutrition, diet, physical activity; mindfulness and mental well- being, money management & budgeting. We also signposting them to places and people in the community where they can seek additional help and support. Whilst the young mums enjoy free exercise classes and talks led by health professionals their preschool children have access to a free creche, where they are able to develop key social skills, (such as active listening, taking turns, sharing etc) to prepare them for school.

What we'll deliver:

• Provide 40 ( two hour s long ) creche sessions for a minimum 15 pre school childremn
• Provide 40 ( two hours long) weekly drop-in session for 15 young mums.
• Provide 45 minutes of instructor lead physical activities for 15 inactive young mums
• Provide healthy snacks to both young mums and their pre school children

Why it's a great idea:

By reducing the social isolation of young mums and increasing their skills and knowledge base, we will help create more confident, happy young women, with greater resilience( and support networks) and better able to cope with the ups and downs of family life. in turn this should result in healthier and happier children.

Steps to get it done:

• EMC's current coordinator will be engaged for extra hours to run this project should funding be secured.
• Local health professionals have agreed to provide regular health related information workshop and presentations.
• Local qualified fitness instructors have been approached & are able to undertake sessional work when funding is secured.
• Securing a venue - dialogue with St Marks Family Centre, Mitcham has already taken place.