Help for mums and dads with twin, triplets and more . . .

With the start of Twins, Triplets and More week  (June 28 – July 4), I am writing to let other people in the area, who are expecting – or have recently had – a multiple birth, about a new and desperately needed initiative that will help prepare them for the challenges that lie ahead.

Nearly one in five mothers of multiple births develop Post Natal Depression – that is almost double the number of mothers of singletons who experience this debilitating condition.

Until now just one in three mothers have had access to specific parent education on having a multiple birth, which is really worrying as research shows that lack of access to such classes increases mothers’ chances of developing Post Natal Depression. It does not have to be this way!

This week, the Twins And Multiple Births Association (Tamba) is launching a groundbreaking pre- and ante-natal initiative, ‘Get Ready for Multiples!’, which is designed to prepare local parents for the unique challenges of having a multiple birth.

The launch includes free and subsidised ‘survival’ classes for expectant parents, and a free practical guide to help parents who may be suffering from Post Natal Depression – see http://bit.ly/multiplebirths for more information.

Tamba also offers a free helpline, Twinline, on 0800 138 0509 that provides information and emotional support for parents and professionals. Having twins, triplets (or more!) can and should be a joy.

Supported by ‘Get Ready for Multiples!’, I hope that more local parents will be able to get on and really enjoy their babies.

 Lisa McNicholas.