Parent peer support

Looking after a child’s mental health can be hard. Parents told us they need support too — to share experiences, learn skills and feel less alone. We are working with families to create peer-to-peer groups that build confidence and community.

Being a Dad

A parenting course designed by and for fathers.

  • Based on the nationally recognised Empowering Parents, Empowering Communities (EPEC) model

  • Helps dads of 2–11 year olds strengthen parenting skills and relationships

  • Builds confidence and wellbeing

Impact

  • Independent evaluation shows improved parenting skills and lower stress

  • Dads who completed the course have gone on to train as leaders and run their own groups

Mindful Mamas

A co-produced wellbeing course for mothers with young children.

  • Seven-week group programme focused on mindfulness and parenting support

  • Designed and delivered with local mums in Lambeth and Southwark

  • Provides space for reflection, self-care and building connections

Impact

  • 61 mothers completed the course

  • Participants reported improved wellbeing and parenting confidence

  • Strongest gains were among mothers most at risk of depression

Upskilling parents as leaders

We believe parents are powerful leaders. The upskilling programme trains local parents to lead support groups in their own communities.

  • Co-designed with parents, community groups and CAMHS

  • Includes practical skills, facilitation and wellbeing tools

  • Delivered with diverse facilitators to reflect local communities

Impact

  • Two training cycles completed so far

  • Parents leading groups in schools, community centres and faith spaces

  • Stronger, more sustainable community networks

Priorities moving forward

  • Expand Being a Dad and Mindful Mamas to more boroughs

  • Train more parents as peer group leaders

  • Secure long-term funding to embed parent-led support