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Emma Jane Sasaru, Helen Calvert, Susanne Remic and Elaine Hanzak – ‘Partners in crime, changing the world’

I have been speaking to students at Salford University for a number of years now and was delighted to present at their ‘Women and Wellbeing Conference’ on 17th June. This was aimed at women in general and organised by the University of Salford Maternity Users group.  It was a free conference for women and families focused on health and wellbeing in pregnancy and early parenthood. A range of speakers and workshops provided information and practical advice on current health issues and strategies for coping with the transition into parenthood.

The speakers were great, although it was a shame that attendance was not as good as it could have been.

We heard from Lisa Stone, Salford City Councillor, about her role on the Health and Wellbeing board and also her personal story. Her young son was in the audience.

Jill Beswick, a health visitor consultant, spoke about tips on ‘Trust and warmth – helping children to develop’.

I then shared my suggestions on perinatal mental health. I also shared my story and hoped that I did not worry any of the pregnant ladies in the audience. One of them spoke to me afterwards and said I had actually eased her worries because I had made her appreciate the need to speak up if she was struggling.

There were a number of stalls including the inspirational Pete Wallroth from Mummy’s Star;

Helen Calvert, from Heart Mummy, ‘Bringing together parents and professionals, knowledge and experience. Bringing together those who can help with those who need support. Bringing together those with something to say with those who have the time to listen. Bringing together new ideas and established practice’;

Susanne Remic, GhostWriter Mummy, who was representing Mama Academy today.

Workshops included Birth Rites, Fit Together, ‘With you all the Way‘ – accupuncture, Baby Move from Salford Sure Start.

After the break we heard from Emma Jane Sasaru who shared a wonderful presentation on Emotional Wellbeing. Emma encourages us to be part of the Perinatal Mental Health Network, Unfold Your Wings (birth trauma and PTSD) and Loving Baby (nurturing families with love).

Suzie Evans shared her poignant story of ‘Disability and Motherhood’ about her visual challenges and use of mindfulness.

The presentations were punctuated by some great poems written and recited by Kati Edwards, poet and doula.

Sadly I was unable to stay to listen to Helen Calvert speaking about getting your voice heard through social media, e.g. #Mat Exp , followed by ‘Saving Babies in North England (SaBine project).

Have a look at other slides, links and photos by the feed on Twitter  and the storify of the event here.

Thank you to the team at Salford, including Jeanne Lythgoe for inviting me to be part of this great event.

The goodwill, passion, services and dedication to making pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period is so encouraging!

Elaine