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Recap of Session 1 for Expecting Mums: The Maternity Space



We recently kicked off The Maternity Space session for Expecting Mums, as part of our community initiative designed to create a supportive environment for women in different phases of their maternity journey. This first session was an inspiring gathering, where mums-to-be shared their pregnancy journeys and connected over the joys and challenges they’ve encountered. It was a wonderful turnout, with participants engaging in meaningful discussions about the changes they’ve experienced since pregnancy and their hopes as they embark on the journey of parenthood.


A Safe Space for Sharing and Connection


The session began with mums reflecting on their experiences so far, touching on how pregnancy has transformed their bodies, minds, and lives. Whether it was feeling those exciting first baby kicks or adjusting to new routines, every mum had a unique story. Many expressed their hopes of nurturing healthy and happy babies while also learning to navigate the responsibilities of motherhood with confidence.


This space for open dialogue allowed expecting mums to connect with others facing similar challenges, helping them feel less isolated and more supported. The conversation centered on emotional and physical well-being, with a collective sense of empathy filling the room.


Insights from Chioma Nkwonta


We were joined in the session with health visitor, Chioma Nkwonta. Chioma works with the London Borough of Newham as a Health Visitor in the Children and Young People Services from 0 to 19 Years. Health visitors typically work with children and their families from the antenatal period until children are five. They work in partnership with other agencies such as midwives, GPs, schools, social workers, voluntary services and children centres. You should have an assigned health visitor who will support you in your journey as a new parent.




Chioma spoke extensively about the resources available to parents, covering various health promotion initiatives and workshops that are tailored to different communities. These sessions, she emphasized, play a key role in preparing parents for childbirth and the early years of parenting.


Chioma outlined the broad range of services provided by her team, from antenatal workshops to weaning classes. She noted how these services are specifically designed to meet the needs of each local area:

“We do several health promotion workshops… it depends on where you live. Different teams do different things, so I can direct you to the health visiting teams in your area.”

This personalized approach helps ensure that every mum can access the support that best suits her circumstances. She also spoke about Building Community Capacity (BCC) workshops, which focus on strengthening parental knowledge and fostering a supportive community.


Chioma shared how health promotion goes beyond the GP’s advice to “just monitor the baby”:

“We do a lot of preventative work—minor ailments, antenatal care, weaning workshops for when your child starts solids…”

Key Resources for Parents


Chioma strongly encouraged expecting mums to utilize the local Children’s Centres, which provide an incredible variety of free services. These centres offer everything from sleep and behavior management workshops to playgroups and support for parents of children with additional needs. The Sheringham Children’s Centre in Newham, in particular, was highlighted as a hub where parents can access several services, including infant feeding support and family navigators.

"The Children’s Centre is a great resource. They offer playgroups Monday to Friday, and everything is free. It’s really worth taking advantage of.”

Chioma also mentioned that mums can access vitamins for both themselves and their babies through the Children’s Centres, emphasizing the importance of registering at the centre nearest to them.


In addition to general parental support, Chioma highlighted other essential services available at the Children’s Centres, including Hestia, which provides advice to families facing domestic violence, and infant feeding teams, who are available weekly to help with any feeding concerns.


Weaning Advice from Chioma

One of the key concerns raised during the session was about weaning, and Chioma provided valuable advice on when and how to introduce solid foods.


She explained that while early weaning might sometimes be recommended in cases of severe reflux (after a dietitian's consultation), the general rule is to wait until six months. Chioma cautioned against introducing solid foods too early, even though baby food products in stores often claim to be suitable from four months. She emphasized that a baby needs to be physically ready to start solids, especially in terms of their ability to sit up.


Maternal Mental Health


Chioma Nkwonta emphasized the importance of seeking support for postnatal depression (PND) and normalizing conversations around mental health. She reassured mums that PND is a real condition, not a choice, and that seeking help is crucial. Chioma dispelled the common fear that mental health struggles could lead to a child being taken away, highlighting that health professionals are there to support, not judge. By opening up and seeking help, mothers can receive the care they need, ensuring their well-being and the best care for their baby.


If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that reaching out is the first step. Local services, health visitors, and support groups are available to provide guidance and reassurance. Don’t hesitate to talk to your GP or a trusted friend; you’re not alone in this journey. Let’s continue to break the stigma around mental health and foster a community where everyone feels safe to seek help.


To contact health visitor services please call the single point of access line on telephone number 0203 373 9983 or email CHIS@newham.gov.uk


Looking Forward


The first session for Expecting Mums exceeded our expectations, with mums actively engaging and learning from one another. The discussions and insights provided by Chioma were a vital part of the session, equipping expecting mums with practical advice and access to local resources.


A huge thank you to Chioma and all the mums who attended and contributed to the success of our first session. We look forward to seeing you at the next one!






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