Press – Project MAMA

project mama in the press

14/04/2020 https://www.bristol247.com/news-and-features/news/supporting-mothers-in-difficult-circumstances-through-the-coronavirus-pandemic/

10/3/2020 https://www.bristol247.com/lifestyle/family/the-charity-supporting-bristols-migrant-mothers/

06/06/2019 https://thebristolcable.org/2019/06/communities-standing-up-college-students-skaters-and-migrant-mums-warmley-forest-skatepark-mama-project-plastic-free/

12/3/2019 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-bristol-47539726/migrant-women-given-maternity-support-by-project-mama

projectmamauk

Mabon or the autumn equinox in Celtic culture, is

Mabon or the autumn equinox in Celtic culture, is a time traditionally used to give thanks to Mother Earth for giving the harvest, and to pray to the goddesses that the crop would last throughout the winter.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The equinox marks the balance between day and night, light and darkness. Today marks the new moon in Libra encourages us to appreciate balance, harmony, and most of all, to focus on nurturing and standing with others. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Project MAMA stands in solidarity with all mamas, invoking a sense of justice and radical nurturing, harvesting the talents of our village to bear its fruits. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Artwork by the talented @_kallenmikel ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#autumnequinox #mabon #librasun #fullmoon #projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #solidarity #doulasupport #bristol #cityofsanctuary #nurturing

We are looking for a Volunteer Administrative Assi

We are looking for a Volunteer Administrative Assistant to help us with the day to day running of Project MAMA. This person will ideally be based in our office in Easton (Bristol) volunteering one day a week.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We are anticipating an increased demand for our services in the coming months, so your support with the smooth daily running of the charity will be invaluable. If you are interested in working in the third sector this is a great opportunity to see how a small charity operates and gain experience in a number of areas. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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For more info check the link in our bio or drop us a DM. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#volunteer #volunteerbristol #refugeeswelcome #enddetention #endthehostileenvironment #thesewallsmustfall #nooneisillegal #stopdeportations #humanrights #migrantrights #motherhood #families #migrantcrossings #cityofsanctuary #displacedmamas #stoppritipatel #pregnancy #bristol

Stand in solidarity with pregnant Afghan women and

Stand in solidarity with pregnant Afghan women and other displaced mothers in Bristol so no mama births alone.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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No one plans to flee their country whilst pregnant. We are fundraising to provide a safe and nurturing space and companionship to Afghan mamas during this crucial time.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We’ve seen on our screens the plight of so many Afghan people affected by inhumane treatment by the hands of the Taliban, disproportionately affecting the rights of women and girls. Bristol has stepped up as a city of sanctuary and is already welcoming Afghan citizens. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We know that among the Afghan people arriving in Bristol, there are women who are heavily pregnant and we are working as fast as we can to support them through their transition from displacement into parenthood so no mama births alone. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We know more mamas will be reaching for our support than we previously anticipated, so we are working to meet that demand, but we need your support. Please donate today in order to meet the needs of Afghan mamas and any others who need it. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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At Project MAMA we provide one-to-one birth companions to ensure each mother gives birth safely, makes informed choices and receives the nurturing support she needs for a positive birth and early parenting experience.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Please donate today to our crowdfunder (link in bio)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Love & Rage, ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The Project MAMA Team⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Today we had an induction session with 5 incredibl

Today we had an induction session with 5 incredible new Mother Companions (...and Elber the office dog) who are joining the Project MAMA brood. Welcome Sally, Natalie, Alice, Clara and Gemma, soon to be offering their dose of fierce yet nurturing oxytocin vibes to mamas looking for birth and advocacy support. We're lucky to have you! 🧡
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#solidarity #projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #birthworker #bristol #cityofsanctuary #birthsupport

**TRIGGER WARNING: Mention of Suicide and Postnata

**TRIGGER WARNING: Mention of Suicide and Postnatal Depression**⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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This week marks World Suicide Prevention Week, an issue that disproportionally affects migrating populations and those in the perinatal period.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Maternal suicide is the leading cause of direct deaths occurring within a year after the end of pregnancy. Studies have shown that Postnatal Depression (PND) may affect up to 42% of migrant women, compared to around 10-15% of women living in their country of origin. Many migrant mamas we support have experienced trauma even before they get pregnant. They also have had to face services where there might be a lack of cultural safety, systemic microagressions, a lack of access to healthcare as well as a lack of social and community support. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Writing this as the founder of Project MAMA, I think it's fair to say that so many of our volunteers and mamas alike have been directly or indirectly affected by this issue, which can be both our superpower in times of crisis, but also makes mutual support all the more pertinent. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We centre mothers we support as a team and in partnership with NHS Perinatal Mental Health Teams here in Bristol to ensure of all our mamas receive the support they need and we can continue to show active solidarity.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We encourage everyone to start a conversation about perinatal mental health everyday. Reach out to that friend who might have given birth recently, or even one who hasn't. If you are experiencing low mood around the birth of your baby, reach for support; many more of us understand than don't. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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- Fiona x⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Art by the talented @naavaonline⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#worldsuicidepreventionweek #worldsuicidepreventionday #PND #postnataldepresion #letstalkmentalhealth #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #bristol #cityofsanctuary #resilience #birthsupport

There are many ways in which you can stay healthy

There are many ways in which you can stay healthy during and after pregnancy. Our team wanted to share some ideas of healthy habits our mamas can incorporate to their day to day routines:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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🧘🏽‍♀️ Practise breathing exercises and stretches: Learning to control your breathing is an easy technique that you can do almost anywhere. Slow, deep breathing can help you relax and it’s a great tool to have during labour. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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🚶🏿‍♀️ Go for a walk: You don’t have to go for miles either, studies have shown that walking for as little as 12 minutes can have an impact on our health. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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🎧 Listen to music or prayer: Music has been proven to help with relaxation and can even help you sleep better. Some people also enjoy listening to prayer and recitation of holy scriptures, such as the Quran. This has been proven to reduce anxiety and improve general wellbeing.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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🥗 Nourish your body: There is no need for pregnancy or breastfeeding specific foods, having a balanced diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables, grains and pulses, as well as dairy (or dairy alternatives) and fat, should provide everything you need to keep you and your baby healthy.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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🧖🏼‍♀️ Have a warm shower: Try giving yourself a gentle neck and scalp massage while in the shower. Having a warm shower in the evenings can also help you fall asleep faster and get some much needed night rest.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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📞 Talk to a friend or Mother Companion: Nothing beats a good chat with a pal, whether it’s in person, over the phone or text. Also, it’s ok to ask for help if you need it, reach out to a friend or a Mother Companion.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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How do you look after yourself? We are always looking for new, simple and cheap ways to look after yourself to share with our mamas. Share your tips in the comments.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#healthymamas #projectmama #resilience #motherhood #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #healthyhabits #pregnancyhealth

This week marks #blackbreastfeedingweek which cele

This week marks #blackbreastfeedingweek which celebrates black breastfeeding mamas and raise awareness about issues mamas face around breastfeeding. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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For black mothers there can be barriers to breastfeeding even before the baby arrives. There is a considerable lack of positive images and representation of lactating black women, not only on mainstream media, but also among breastfeeding support organisations. Whilst this is not an issue that can be resolved overnight, this week we highlights the importance of positive representation and to promote person-centred and culturally safe support to all mamas. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Special props doing this vital work go to: ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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@b_breastfeeding_b⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
@blackbreastfeedingmamas⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
@laurenjturnerfineart (Image on post)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
@vanishavirgo⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
@rosiecartersuso⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Illustration by the wonderful @laurenjturnerfineart⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#blackbreastfeedingmamas #blackmama #blackmomsbreastfeed #breastfeeding #normalisebreastfeeding #breastfeedingandblack #breastmilk #blackbreastfeedingmatters #blackbreastfeedingsupport #solidarity #projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #birthworker #bristol #cityofsanctuary #birthsupport

As the moon plays a role in the tides in the ocean

As the moon plays a role in the tides in the ocean, so it's believed that it affects the amniotic fluid in pregnancy bringing on labour. Three of our mamas have welcomed their babies from last full moon to this one, the latest of them arriving in the early hours of today in the birthing pool. Mama did an excellent job managing the surges, keeping in control of her strength and delivering her baby, with one of our Mother Companions by her side. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Her chosen baby name translates to love. Love was born on a full moon. If that is not poetry, then we don't know what is!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Congratulations to all of our mamas and their full moon babies.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#solidarity #projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #birthworker #bristol #cityofsanctuary #resilience #birthsupport #birthstory #fullmoon

Mothers spend approximately 1,825 hours breastfeed

Mothers spend approximately 1,825 hours breastfeeding if they choose to feed for 12 months. A full time job per year is, on average 1519 hours.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The theme for this years Black Breastfeeding Week beginning tomorrow is 'Collective Rest for Collective Power', a sentiment poignant for many after a year of disruption, overtime and exhaustion. During the peak of the pandemic, black women were more likely to work a "double shift", working both domestically and juggling employment. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Black Breastfeeding Week organisers state, 'Black women have unique cultural barriers and a complex history connected to breastfeeding. From our role as wet nurses in slavery being forced to breastfeed and nurture our slave owners children often to the detriment of our children, to the lack of mainstream role models and multi-generational support , to our own stereotyping within our community—we have a different dialogue around breastfeeding and it needs special attention.'⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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To quote the late and great Audrey Lorde, 'Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.' We celebrate black parents breastfeeding against significant barriers not only this week, but also all other 51 of them.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#blackbreastfeedingmamas #blackmama #blackmomsbreastfeed #breastfeeding #normalisebreastfeeding #breastfeedingandblack #breastmilk #blackbreastfeedingmatters #blackbreastfeedingsupport #solidarity #projectmama #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #strongwomen #birthworker #bristol #resilience #birthsupport

This month, we bid farewell to the inimitable Madd

This month, we bid farewell to the inimitable Maddie Harris who is leaving her role at Project MAMA. Her vital work at @humansforrightsnetwork is busier than ever as she continues front-line work fighting violations against displaced people seeking safety against much hostility. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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However, as one door closes, another opens and we're incredibly lucky to welcome Azza Mustafar as our new Wellbeing & Advocacy Coordinator.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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With 14 years supporting women and girl survivors of multiple forms of violence from European, African and Arab speaking communities, displaced people and survivors of trafficking, she brings much knowledge and compassion to the team.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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She says:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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'I have worked close to Project MAMA over the last 2 years within a partner organisation and I have become very passionate and ambitious about the organisation. I have grown to respect, admire and feel proud of the work that Project MAMA delivers and I have a better understanding of women’s needs throughout different stages of their pregnancy. I believe that women have the right to be supported through their pregnancy and beyond in order to harness their power and to give birth safely.'⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Welcome Azza! 🧡

*Crossing the sea*⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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I can’t tell you how you’ll know you’re in labour. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I’m not you, and there’s no one feeling that all women feel. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Take your time. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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So now you are standing on the shore of your labour, and the waves are swelling thought you. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Just breathe. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Breathe.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Breathe. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Breathe. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Breathe. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Breathe. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
There, another wave has passed. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
That’s one more done of all the many you’ll do. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Your womb just worked a bit more. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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When the waves are coming, strong and steady, and they will (BRING IT ON!). You can sink under them or you can float with them. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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This needs to become stronger, more powerful, more present more now. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
There are places you can go that make it more intense. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Go there. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Kick away from the shore. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Swim!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Feel down into your depths. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
You are becoming more open…⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
…as each wave comes through you, let yourself expand… ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Bring it on!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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There will be the most tremendous waves. This is what labour is. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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You might think that you can’t do this. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Ask for strength and you will find it. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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You are doing it. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
You are really doing it. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Bring it on!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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There is no future. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
There is no past. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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A new life is about to begin. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
But now, time stands still. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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A new like. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
A new narrative. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
But now, you are beyond words. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Illustration and words by @cartoonkate.evans [Abridged version of 'Crossing the sea', published in Bumps.] ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#solidarity #projectmama #supportsurvivors #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #birthworker #birthsupport #illustration

Project MAMA needs you! We are looking for Brist

Project MAMA needs you!

We are looking for Bristol-based doulas, midwives, antenatal educators and other birth workers to join our team of volunteer Mother Companions.

Project MAMA exists so that no woman goes without the compassionate and nurturing presence of a birth companion so she can give birth safely and confidently.

Our Mother Companions ensure each mama-to-be gives birth safely, makes informed choices and receives the nurturing support they need for a positive birth and early parenting experience.

As a Mother Companion you will receive training in Cultural Safety, Birth Trauma Awareness, Perinatal Mental Health, FGM Training, Safeguarding, and other relevant topics, as well as an induction to the role.

We encourage birth workers with a lived experience of the immigration to the UK to apply to volunteer as we feel that the nuance of understanding can hugely benefit this role. We also look forward to receiving applications from people with experience supporting displaced women. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and sections of the community.

This is a voluntary role.
For more information, follow the link in our bio.

#projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #birthworker #bristol #cityofsanctuary #volunteer #mothersupporters #birthsupport

Solidarity. A simple word that seems to be lacking

Solidarity. A simple word that seems to be lacking in the UK at the moment. Solidarity is one of our guiding principles, and although we focus primarily on gestating migrants, we extend it to everyone seeking safety. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The government's proposed Nationality and Borders Bill has passed its second reading in the House of Commons. This bill completely undermines the UK’s commitment to protecting the rights of refugees. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We oppose the current proposals, which we believe to be based on fear, ignorance and lack of solidarity, rather than fairness, as Priti Patel seems to claim. We fear these measures will mean more mamas are left vulnerable to violence and exploitation. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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You can read and sign the open letter 'Seeking Sanctuary is a Human Right' signed by us and many other local agencies in the Bristol Cable (link in bio). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#refugeeswelcome #enddetention #endthehostileenvironment #thesewallsmustfall #nooneisillegal #stopdeportations #humanrights #migrantrights #motherhood #families #migrantcrossings #cityofsanctuary #displacedmamas #stoppritipatel #pregnancy #bristol #openletter #chooselove

Ringlet on arm,⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Lips on

Ringlet on arm,⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Lips on breast.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Toes⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Scratch, scratch,⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Scratching my thigh.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Your body curling into mine.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Breakfast.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
In bed.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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-Carla Molina at All Of Me Now⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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This week we mark breastfeeding and chest feeding where we celebrate feeding with love. Early parenthood can sometimes make time feel like the days go slowly but the months go past too quickly. Living alone with small babes, these precious moments mean everything!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Illustration by @junejewell ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#breastfeedingweek #bfweek2021 #feedon #solidarity #projectmama #ProtectBreastfeeding #breastfeedinginpublic #breastfeeding #bristolbreastfeeding #protectbreastfeedingtogether #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #resilience #motherhood #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #cityofsanctuary

We would like to introduce you our newest team mem

We would like to introduce you our newest team member, Silvia, who is coming on board as our Communications Coordinator. Here is a little message from her: ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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'Hi, I'm originally from Chile and I'm a mama of two. I moved to the UK in 2012, and although my migration story comes with a series of privileges, I've seen the 'hostile environment' first hand and how this affects women disproportionally. I've always been passionate about migration rights, so when I moved to the UK I got involved with refugee agencies in Bristol and further afield . Since having children, I've been reflecting on my own experience as a migrant mother and about the many issues around childbirth, parenthood, race and feminism. I am very passionate about working in organisations and projects that work towards social change and that align with my values, such as Project MAMA, so I'm really looking forward being part of it.' ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Welcome Silvia! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#solidarity #projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #traumainformed #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #strongwomen #birthworker #bristol #cityofsanctuary #resilience #birthsupport #charitycommunications #charitycomms

This week it is Birth Trauma Awareness week. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We recognise at Project MAMA that many of our clients have a significantly higher chance of experiencing birth trauma due to pre-existing PTSD, which can lead to psychological triggers without adequate trauma-informed and culturally safe maternity care.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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It's a huge rational for us providing consistent Mother Companion support throughout the perinatal period, not only for the parent, but to break the cycle of trauma to enable bonding so new families can get off to the best start. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We believe this nurturing care is a radical act and opposes the 'Hostile Environment' so many migrating people face, whilst creating a safe space for those oxytocin vibes which impacts not only mama's mental health but the next generation.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We also acknowledge that structural and psychological barriers faced by non-binary people and trans men also can lead to significant birth trauma and we stand in solidarity.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#motherhood #families #cityofsanctuary #displacedmamas #pregnancy #bristol #solidarity #projectmama #refugeeswelcome #supportsurvivors #doulasupport #traumainformed #resilience #motherhood #equalcareforeverymama #migrantmamasmatter #birthworker #bristol #cityofsanctuary #resilience #birthsupport

We are beyond excited to announce that Asli Tatlia

We are beyond excited to announce that Asli Tatliadim is our new Chair of Trustees!
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Asli has been working with people seeking asylum and refugees for the past six years. With Kurdish origins, she grew up in Turkey. There, she worked as a campaigner and in the front lines with child labourers among refugee and internally displaced populations. Since 2017, she has been working with people seeking asylum at Bristol Refugee Rights, where she is now the Impact and Communications Manager. Asli has worked in Peru, UK and Turkey on multiple grassroots projects on child, migrant, refugee and indigenous rights issues. She is a mother of one. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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She says: “I have been struggling with borders and racism for two decades both in my personal life and as a professional. When I became pregnant and gave birth, my appreciation of birthing people’s struggle with the complex healthcare system and their loneliness in this intimate but scary moment grew immensely. Project MAMA’s work could not be closer to my heart. I am excited to work for this incredible organisation.”⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Welcome Asli! We're lucky to have you!

When supporting mamas to prepare for the birth of

When supporting mamas to prepare for the birth of their little one, we talk about the 'golden hour'. This very first hour after birth is a sacred time for bonding and:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The release of Oxytocin⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
An important start to initiating feeding⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The beginning of a new relationship earth-side⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The birth of a parent / mother - known as matrescene⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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All of this is supported by an undisturbed first hour. These early moments of parenting can seem rushed, new parents feeling obliged to agree to tests, checks, weighing... rushing to ensure paperwork is completed … when in reality those things can wait. Many parents my not realise they can delay weighing their baby and other checks that follow. This is something our Mother Companions always discuss with mothers when helping them write their birth plan, because it can be so impactful during those first few days and weeks of getting to know their baby. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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There are times when a golden hour immediately after birth isn’t possible; perhaps parent or baby needing additional support. But this golden hour can come later or may even become ‘golden days’ once home and settled. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Incredible llustration @leanne_pearce_artist⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#goldenhour #matresence #becomingamother #postnatalexperience #journeytomotherhood #birthplan #mothercompanion #initiatingbreastfeeding #breastfeeding #delayedcordclamping #calmfirsthour

On Wednesday we had our inaugural PICNIC IN THE PA

On Wednesday we had our inaugural PICNIC IN THE PARK which was the our FIRST group get-together in 16 months!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Mamas and their (rapidly growing) babes gathered to welcome expectant mothers into the fold, with food yoga and much-needed chatter. It was a very special day indeed - and the weather goddesses were very kind!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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This mural opposite St. Georges Park couldn't have been more apt (good one, @zoepower!) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We've already had requests for a repeat event, how could we say no?!

We’re shocked and appalled at NICE’s response

We’re shocked and appalled at NICE’s response to black womens maternal mortality, which is dangerous and inherently racist. We stand with the #notsonice campaign.

Repost• @_aliciaburnett 𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗘 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲:
𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝗿 (𝘂𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲)

𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲:
14 October 2021

𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲:
5pm on 6 July 2021.

I am involved in a group response to this draft guideline. Email alicia@all4maternity.com to see the draft and add your signature.

Why have I made this post? I have numerous concerns:

1. NICE statement: "by offering induced labour one week earlier, we can help ensure that women and babies are safer from harm and have the best possible outcomes during birth.”

However: the committee also admit that in order to reduce health inequalities in maternity outcomes more research should be done.

2. NICE assert that non-white women are at higher risk of poor outcomes if their pregnancies continue beyond 37 weeks. However, they note that is not based upon direct evidence, but the committee's knowledge and experience.

3. The guideline advises making women aware of the factors that put them at risk of poor outcomes.

Which effectively means: tell women that their ethnicity puts them and their babies at risk without acknowledging the impact of systemic racism. This places the burden of responsibility upon women instead of the maternity system. Blackness is not the problem. Anti-Blackness is.

4. This guideline recommends induction of labour at 39+0 weeks for women with uncomplicated, singleton pregnancies.

For more information about this guideline update check out @abueladoula, @drsarawickham and @_midwifelife_ .

#midwife #studentmidwife #pregnancy #pregnant #labour #labor #gestation #guidance #clinical #evidencebase

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