Partnership to help mums suffering depression

Now an initiative in Morley is aiming to make the church the heart of the community once again.

St Peter's Church has joined forces with Morley Children's Centre and health professionals to start a support group for women suffering from post-natal depression in the area. And they are hoping it will be a model followed by other churches.

The idea came about after David Paley from St Peter's heard a talk by inspirational speaker and former PND sufferer Elaine Hanzak.

"We had been looking for groups to get involved with, that we could help by providing a venue and publicity.

"After hearing Elaine speak I invited her to come to St Peter's to talk to other members of the church and medical professionals about how we could help woman with post-natal depression.

"There was nothing like it in the area. We could offer premises which didn't have any associations with the medical profession, where women could seek help."

The church approached Morley North Children's Centre who were keen to get involved. Using a course already in operation from

the NSPCC in Bramley, Leeds, Louise Walker set up the 12-week course.

"We were getting referrals from health visitors and some were around post-natal depression, particularly isolation issues. We have a parent and baby group but nothing specifically for women suffering from PND. So when we were approached by St Peter's to start something, we were very excited," says Louise.

The group offers practical and emotional support and a free crche.

"It looks at self-esteem and confidence and allows mothers to network and talk to other mums who are experiencing similar issues. People can be referred by their health visitors or

self-refer.

"It's been the church that has taken the lead. It is quite an unusual partnership but one we think is important. When someone is suffering from post-natal depression they need the help of the community to help them get back on their feet.

"It is like the old days when the church was the centre of the community and people helped each other."

Elaine, who has written a book about her experiences with PND is hopeful that

the work started at

St Peter's will be repeated elsewhere.

"To my knowledge it is the only one of its kind and yet it is such an obvious thing.

"The church is a non-medical environment and they have managed to utilise buildings and experts without it costing

anyone anything extra,"

says Elaine.

"It's all about the community. Churches are wanting to encourage families back and this is

such a good way to get involved in the community."

The group runs from

St Peter's Church on

Rooms Lane in Morley on Fridays from 9.30am until 11.30am (term-time only).

n For more information contact Louise Walker at Morley North Children's Centre 0113 307 5557.