How we can help

For Mums

For Mums

Best Start is a suite of services, including groups that we offer to those who need extra support once they find out they are about to have a baby, or have recently given birth. Best start involves having a social worker walking alongside you, (and your partner if they want it) to help you prepare for baby. The social worker may be able to help you find housing, reconnect with whanau, develop new lifeskills, and prepare your home for the arrival of a new little person into your life. Best Start also includes the following groups:

Birth Support Group

Birth Support Group is an antenatal group for mums throughout the whole term of their pregnancy. BSG meets weekly to explore the realities of giving birth, gaining insight in how to be a great mum and strengthening your relationship with your baby. The group includes child birth education from a qualified Child Birth Educator, talks from other important people, fun activities and outings. Click here to find the programme. The group is run by Luana.

“I’ve noticed that I’m a lot more confident in my decisions and I feel a lot better about having conversations with people.”

“I’ve gained the skills and confidence to live independently and make the best decision for my child.”

“Eating healthier, talking more. Understanding more.”

“I have stopped smoking, feel great and better for it.”

ABC Playgroup For Mums

ABC Playgroup for Mums – a playgroup that runs fortnightly during the school terms. It includes outings as well as lots of opportunity to meet other mums and discover new ways of interacting with your baby/toddler. Liz also brings in great speakers to share tips to help with parenting and managing life with little people.

Every Second Thursday – 10:00am to 12:00 noon

Come and share with other mums your experience of motherhood. Learn new things, enjoy your baby and support one another as you share your concerns, triumphs, disasters and good times together in a safe environment.

“Having different people come and talk about different subjects has been really helpful.”

“The support and friendliness has been so good.”

Treasured Wee Ones

Parenting Support Group for Kokara and Pepi, new-born to about 14 months. This playgroup runs fortnightly at Catholic Social Services in the Bart Winter Room and includes speakers, crafts and practical ideas for supporting you and your baby.

Every Second Thursday – 10:00am to 12:00 noon

Come and share with other mums your experience of motherhood. Learn new things, enjoy your baby and support one another as you share your concerns, triumphs, disasters and good times together in a safe environment.

 

Get in touch

Locations

Central Otago:
Alexandra Community House
14/20 Centennial Ave
Alexandra 9320

Dunedin:
42 Macandrew Road
P O Box 2047
South Dunedin 9044

Phone

General:
0800 CSSNOW or 0800277669

Dunedin:
(03) 455 3838

Central Otago:
(03) 448 5385

 

Office hours

Monday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Tuesday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Wednesday 10.30am - 5.00pm
Thursday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm
Saturday & Sunday closed

Find us at 42 Macandrew Road, right across the car park from the South Dunedin Catholic Church (see photos below). Plenty of space inside and outside for spending time with your kids.