How we support mums at SELFA

Posted: 13th March 2026

Supporting mums is part of our DNA at SELFA.

In 2007, our CEO Emma Pears founded SELFA while working for North Yorkshire County Council. As a mum herself, she understood the mental health needs of children, particularly those in the local area, and recognised that parents, especially mothers, also need support for families to truly thrive.

That’s why we run a weekly parents’ group, giving parents a safe space to talk openly about the challenges they’re facing and the emotions they’re experiencing. It’s an opportunity to unwind over a coffee, connect with others, and realise they’re not alone.

It’s also part of SELFA’s wider wellbeing approach. Our policy focuses on creating a supportive environment where staff can thrive, which includes offering flexibility so people can balance work with family life. This is something that’s especially important for many of our team who are parents.

Peer support for parents

Talking about our problems isn’t always easy, especially as a parent. There is a huge amount of pressure to be the ‘perfect’ mum – something we all know is impossible. And when we’re struggling, it can make us feel guilty, ashamed and lonely.

Sometimes, emotions can feel so overwhelming that it’s difficult to find the motivation to talk them out, or we may worry about being ignored or judged. However, being listened to in an empathetic environment such as a peer support group like our parents’ group can have powerful psychological benefits.

A problem shared is often said to be a problem halved and research suggests this is true. Often, talking to others about a difficulty can help you think it through, while making the emotions and feelings associated with a problem seem less overwhelming.

Studies have shown peer support, particularly within mental health services, can lead to an increased sense of hope and a feeling of empowerment, and lessen feelings of isolation.

Why mums need support more than ever

Whether you’ve got a newborn or a teenager, all mums need support from like-minded people.

Record numbers of women are trying to access perinatal mental health support. As many as one in five mums experiencing mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Some research suggests 80 to 90% of new mothers feel lonely, with one study finding that more than a third of new mothers in the UK spend eight hours a day alone with their babies.

All stages of parenthood come with unique challenges, from potty training and toddler tantrums to teenage development and emotions.

At SELFA, we give mums (and dads) the chance to talk about these things openly, without judgement. After all, we’re all just trying to do our best to navigate the highs and lows of being a mum.

What we offer parents at SELFA

Parents Together: A friendly space for parents and carers of children with additional needs or vulnerabilities to chat, share experiences and support each other.

Tuesdays 10 – 11.30am at Coopers Cafe Bar, Skipton

Parents’ Pathways: A structured weekly programme where parents and carers build skills, share strategies and grow family wellbeing and confidence.

Thursdays 9 – 11am at Quaker Meeting House, Skipton

Dads’ group: A relaxed supportive group where dads share experiences, build confidence, support each other and discuss ways to support their children’s wellbeing.

Tuesdays 6 – 7.30pm at Quaker Meeting House, Skipton