Postnatal support group set up for black mothers

Black Mums Kent has been set up for women to share their experiences after childbirth

A community group has been set up in Kent to tackle postnatal depression in black women.

Whitney Dinnall, from Ebbsfleet, created Black Mums Kent following her own experience of being a new mother.

Ms Dinnall had mild depression and anxiety after the birth of her child in 2021.

She said the group existed to support mothers to feel "less isolated, regain their identities and make friends".

Ms Dinnall said she noticed a lack of perinatal community groups that she felt comfortable in.

She said: “There was a lack of diversity.

"I wanted to provide a more inclusive environment for ethnic minorities to share experiences.

"When you’re a first-time mum, it can be challenging as there’s no manual on how to do it perfectly, so it’s nice to be a part of a group."

According to the Mental Health Foundation, one in five black mothers do not seek professional help for depression.

Whitney Dinnall set up Black Mums Kent after the birth of her own child in 2021

Jessica Bondzie, one of the organisation's programme managers, said: “Black women experience greater barriers to accessing mental health services due to stigma.

“A lot don’t feel supported, listened to or trusted to have those conversations.

“Post-natal depression can happen to anyone and it’s vital that every mum receives a continuity of care”.

Black Mums Kent now has more than 120 members who meet up regularly for play dates, meals and picnics.

One mother who attended said: “I love Black Mums Kent.

"It’s like a therapy session and it’s good to make friends and see our children make friends too”.