From postnatal depression to empowering mums everywhere – one mum’s mission to help others

The birth of Mums for Mums

Years after her personal battle with PND, Toni retrained as a yoga teacher, dedicating herself to working with expectant and new mothers.

Through her ‘Bump and Me’ pregnancy yoga classes and ‘Baby and Me’ sessions, she saw firsthand the struggles many mothers face after giving birth.

These classes were invaluable for both physical and mental recovery, but Toni recognised a gap in the first six weeks postpartum—a time when many mums were experiencing the same feelings of loneliness and uncertainty she once had.

“When the mums I’d worked with in pregnancy yoga came back and said, ‘Those six weeks were really hard,’ I knew something more was needed,” Toni explained.

“For some, it was more than just hard; they were beginning their own journey into postnatal depression. I wanted to offer them support right from the start.”

Toni realised that for insurance reasons, she couldn’t offer fitness or yoga classes immediately after birth.

So instead, she created a support group.

Not wanting it to feel clinical or impersonal, she partnered with The Snug Coffee House, a cosy, pram-friendly café in Atherton run by Rachael, a local business owner who was enthusiastic about the project.

Together, they built a space where new mothers could meet, share their experiences, and receive guidance from healthcare professionals in a comfortable, welcoming environment.

A community-backed vision

The group’s launch was made possible through a grant from Forever Manchester, a community foundation that supports grassroots projects across Greater Manchester.

With this funding, Toni ensured that the project would be completely free to all attendees, removing any financial barriers.

Mothers attending the sessions receive free tea, coffee, and biscuits, and those who’ve had a C-section within the last six weeks are even reimbursed for their taxi fare if they live within a four-mile radius of Atherton.

Vikki Snowden from Forever Manchester, who helped secure the grant, has been a strong supporter of the initiative, attending the first session and providing ongoing encouragement. “They’ve been amazing,” Toni said of Forever Manchester.

“If we need additional support because demand is so high, they’ll help me find more funding. They want this to be a valuable space for the community.”

What happens at a Mums for Mums session?

Every Wednesday at 12 o’clock, new mums gather at The Snug Coffee House for an hour of conversation, education, and connection.

Toni has worked hard to make each session both valuable and enjoyable.

With the involvement of local health professionals, including community midwives and health visitors, the group offers educational talks on topics ranging from sleep patterns and feeding to managing the emotional rollercoaster of early motherhood.

“I didn’t want it to be ‘death by PowerPoint,’” Toni laughed.

“That’s why we’re in a coffee shop. Mums can come together, meet other mums, and learn a little bit about those first few months with a baby, all in a relaxed environment.”

Experienced mums from Toni’s other classes also attend the sessions to welcome new mothers and offer peer support, ensuring that no one feels like they’re walking into the group alone.

“These mums have been through it,” Toni said “and they know how valuable it is to have a friendly face to talk to when you’re struggling.”

Breaking the silence Around postnatal depression

One of the key messages Toni hopes to convey through Mums for Mums is that it’s okay not to be perfect—and it’s okay to ask for help.

“We have unrealistic expectations of what it looks like to be a mum,” she explained.

“We think women should work full-time, have a beautifully kept home, be perfect mums, perfect friends, and perfect partners. But that’s not reality, and it’s really okay not to be perfect.”

For mums who may be struggling, Toni offers simple, practical advice: get outside, even if it’s just for a short walk. “Fresh air can be transformational,” she said.

“You don’t have to go to a paid class or do anything special. Just put your baby in the pram and go for a walk, even if it’s raining. It can make a world of difference.”

And most importantly, she emphasises the value of reaching out to others. Mums for Mums is about building connections, and for Toni, one of the most powerful aspects of the group is the friendships that form between the mums.

“We use a WhatsApp group so mums can reach out if they’re having a bad day and ask if anyone is free to meet up. Someone always is.”

Looking ahead

As the project grows, Toni’s dream is to expand the support network across Manchester, ensuring that no mother feels left behind. “This is a space for everyone,” she said.

“Whether you’re feeling down, struggling with postnatal depression, or just want to get out of the house and meet other mums, you’re welcome here.”

With its blend of community support, expert guidance, and genuine care, Mums for Mums is already making a profound difference in the lives of new mothers across Atherton. And for Toni, that’s exactly what it’s all about.

“It’s about knowing you’re not alone,” she said with a smile. “Sometimes, that makes all the difference.”

Join them every Wednesday at 12 o’clock at The Snug Coffee House, 67a Market St, Atherton, Manchester.

It’s free, it’s friendly, and you’ll get a brew and a biscuit too. If you’ve had a C-section and live within a four-mile radius, keep your taxi receipt, and you’ll be reimbursed.