On the line support for mothers and moms-to-be

OFFERING telephonic and messaging support and counselling to both pregnant women in crisis and moms struggling to cope, the Peace Agency South Africa, a registered NPO, is launching its new helpline, BabyLine, on 1 April.

Operating for the past 10 years, specialising in the care of orphans and vulnerable children, the organisation’s additional service will function as a dedicated phone and WhatsApp line, as well as a Facebook page, which will be manned by social workers ready to offer counselling and support.

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‘As child abandonment is an ongoing crisis in South Africa and with many mothers finding themselves alone, desperate and with no options, BabyLine will provide much-needed psychological and practical support to these mums,’ said co-founder of the Peace Agency, Justin Foxton.

High rates of poverty, gender-based violence, rape, lack of support and shame are some of the contributing factors that lead to neglect, abandonment, infanticide and illegal abortion.

‘The main aim of BabyLine is to encourage family integration and to prevent abandonment, by providing care, counselling, support and a network to assist mothers who are struggling to care adequately for their babies.’

Social worker Pam Mnchunu, who will be heading up the project, said each case would be managed individually by a caring team whose members will give counselling and refer the mum to relevant partner organisations in her area, which are equipped to provide long-term support for her and her baby.

‘The team will follow up on the progress of the mother until she is in a safe environment and able to make good decisions for her and her baby.

‘Family preservation and strengthening of families is our number one priority, but we will offer temporary safe care options, adoption services and family planning options for mothers, should there be a need,’ said Mchunu.

Members of the public, non-profit, and faith-based organisations and individuals providing support and assistance for women are urged to partner with this initiative: BabyLine and The Peace Agency are also inviting KZN businesses, large and small, faith-based organisations, trusts and individuals to fund this much-needed service.

To become a BabyLine support network member or a funding partner, contact Justin Foxton on justin@peaceagency.org.za or visit https://www.peaceagency.org.za/babyline To keep updated on BabyLine, follow their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/BabyLineSA/t>

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