A PROGRAM to help support young mothers is ready to be launched in Bathurst by Young Life Central West.
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The YoungLives program will give pregnant or parenting teen mums the chance to meet with older female mentors for laughter, food, support and friendship.
Co-ordinator Ansia Klavins said the program would provide teen mums with encouragement, guidance and ongoing care in a safe, nurturing environment and help them to thrive in their parenting and other social goals.
“Not only will mentors be there for mums through all their ups and downs, but the mums will get a chance to learn practical tips and tricks on mothering, coping skills and living well,” she said.
Mrs Klavins, who is a mother of four, said that many teen mums did not attend normal play groups because they felt awkward.
“This is going to be all about them,” she said. “Everyone who joins YoungLives is accepted unconditionally and warmly welcomed without judgement.
“Teen mums have many unique needs and we’ve found that they thrive when given one-on-one attention and care.”
She said it was important for all new mothers, especially young mothers, to have a good support network.
“Being a teen mum must be one of the toughest jobs out there,” she said. “I was 23 when I had my first child and was in a stable relationship and I even felt lost and confused and was not sure what to do next.
“Even just having someone to ring when your bub is sick but you’re not sure how sick and having someone to chat about the issues you face is good.”
Mrs Klavins noted that girls who found themselves pregnant so young, often lacked a supportive home environment.
She said studies had found that more than 60 per cent of men who got young women pregnant did not stick around to help.
“So some of these girls become young and single mothers in one go,” she said.
Mrs Klavins said a group of mentors had formed and would be meeting weekly, until the program kicks off in July.
Apart from creating a supportive environment, agencies would present to young mothers on a range of services available and tips on budgeting, meal planning advice and more.
The program will start in July, with hopes there will be a summer camp in January.
Those interested in becoming a mentor, or young mothers who would like information, can call Mrs Klavins on 0417110781 or email at ansia@younglife.org.au.
