Freemasons Visit Frome Birth Talk

As recently reported on this website, Frome Birth Talk were awarded a Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) grant of £9,445 over three years in support of their amazing work assisting members of their local community for whom pregnancy and childbirth proved to be far more difficult, both mentally and physically, than might reasonably have been expected.

On Friday 20th June, Frome Freemasons Andy Baird (Royal Somerset Lodge) and Keith Noble (Forest of Selwood Lodge), visited one of the charity’s weekly groups, held at Trinity Church Hall in Frome, in order to meet some of the team and to find out more about their work. They were joined by Provincial Almoner, Adrian Robson and Charity Steward, Graham Puddy. Provincial Photographer, Les Pickersgill recorded the visit.

As stated on their website, ‘In one sense, becoming pregnant and looking after a baby should be the most natural thing in the world, but that doesn’t mean it is easy!

While often a source of joy, parenthood can be exhausting and frustrating. It can stir up uncomfortable feelings and vulnerabilities, challenging our closest relationships. These things can be difficult to talk about. Parenthood can be a time of extreme change, intense emotions and challenges, and having a space where you can talk all of this through and feel supported and validated can make a huge difference.

“It’s a taboo subject, but suicide is still the leading cause of death for new mothers” says Suzy Cristinacce, Frome Birth Talk’s director. “It’s a vulnerable time where everyone deserves support. Research shows that supporting new parents has a lasting impact on children, families and wider communities. We provide timely and accessible mental health support to anyone who needs it in our area. Public services are so stretched that most people won’t qualify for NHS mental health support, and those who do can face a 16-week wait. We’re proud to offer a counselling service where most people are seen within 3-4 weeks. For many people, it’s life-changing.”

Whilst the atmosphere at this Frome Birth Talk toddler group meeting was happy and relaxed, we were reminded that the joy and happiness often associated with pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood can so easily taken for granted. Frome Birth Talk exists to assist those for whom the reality is quite different. An amazing charity that we are extremely proud to support.