Leith social enterprise crowdfunding to tackle parental isolation during the pandemic

Kin Collective is asking the public to help raise £8000, which will be used to set up their Family Wellbeing Hub, in Leith.

The hub will work with new and expectant parents to make community connections and offer access to workshops, resources and specialists in perinatal care.

Kathryn Lawrence, founder of Kin Collective, explained why parenting during a pandemic has put significant stress on new mums and dads, and inspired the group to take action. She said: “Over the last year, expectant parents have had to face enormous challenges caused by cancelled classes, changes to maternity services and the uncertainty of parenthood with reduced support. Social isolation and loneliness have increased dramatically and many new parents have had little or no contact with other local families.

“They say that it takes a village to raise a child, and these connections are so vital for parents in supporting their mental wellbeing. Kin Collective wants to provide a space to bring families together and support the journey into parenthood from pregnancy and beyond.”

The family wellbeing hub will offer a peer support programme, both online and in person, with an emphasis on positive pregnancy, infant feeding, perinatal mental health, and postpartum health and fitness. It is planned that their doors will be open in early 2021.

Running until December 18, the Kin Collective crowdfunder offers a variety of perks in return for financial support, including the popular Kin cup, an eco-friendly insulated cup launched in partnership with Klean Kanteen UK.

Kathryn added: “A hot cup of tea represents an important act of self care, which many parents miss out on during the first months and weeks of caring for a baby.

“By purchasing a Kin cup, you are helping us get one step further to offering Edinburgh parents a lifeline for physical and mental wellbeing. It also makes a fantastic Christmas gift for new mums as it keeps drinks hot for up to 14 hours!”

To donate or find out more, people can do so on Kin Collective’s crowdfunding page.

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