A NEW program is seeking to give young mothers a much-needed bump in support and confidence.
Bump is a mentoring initiative aimed at pregnant or new mums aged 13 to 25 in the southeastern suburbs that offers advice, skills and social support.
Organisers the Raise Foundation are recruiting mentors for next year from across the metropolitan area to volunteer out of the Armadale Community Family Centre.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWProgram counsellor Rebecca Glorie said Bump was a truly unique program.
“It is different to other parenting groups in that the young mums have the support of a mentor to welcome them, chat with them and guide them,” the Mt Pleasant-based psychologist said. “We offer advice on budgeting, legal rights, education, employment and much more.
“But it is also fun, with themed workshops including activities such as scrapbooking, cooking, arts and crafts.”
Bump is free to attend, with food and drink provided, and free experienced babysitters on hand to ensure the young mums can get some much-needed time for themselves.
Raise Foundation is seeking mentors over the age of 25 who have children of their own that can spare two hours a week on Wednesdays during school terms 2 and 3. Volunteer mentors will need a working with children and national crime check, with free training in youth mentoring provided on January 31 and February 1 to ensure they have the skills to make a difference in a young person’s life.
Bump already runs in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania, and there are hopes the program will expand across Perth.
“The goal is to ensure our young mums feel connected, supported and keen to return,” Ms Glorie said.
Go to www.raise.org.au/volunteer to register interest.