Baby Basics West Norfolk Branch in Dersingham helps 377 vulnerable mothers and babies in record-breaking year
A volunteer group has seen a record year as it helps more people than ever.
Baby Basics, in Dersingham, is made up of some eight volunteers who give up their time to provide essential items to vulnerable mothers with newborns.
Recommended to those in need by midwives, health visitors and other professional bodies, the group offers a helping hand to people at risk such as teenage mums and women who are fleeing domestic abuse.
Moses baskets with stands are provided to give a safe bed to sleep in and it is filled with essentials such as nappies, wipes, maternity pads, blankets, towels and baby clothes.
Since 2019, the organisation has noticed a gradual increase in demand for its services, from 50-60 baskets a year to 377 in 2023.
Maggie Anderson, a member of the group, said: “Covid was the beginning of the increase, but the cost of living crisis has had an impact.
“It’s hit everyone, but for those who were already struggling, it makes it a lot worse.”
Baby Basics was founded in 2009 at The King’s Centre Church in Sheffield and now has 52 branches all over the country.
“We are genuinely grateful for all the support that we’ve had,” Maggie added.
“It is a privilege to be able to help people, but we shouldn’t have to – these are essential items that everyone should have.”
To recommend a mother to the group, or to donate you can email babybasicswestnorfolk@gmail.com