Steve Brine, Winchester & Chandler's Ford MP, on Monday 27th September attended a local parent support group organised and hosted by Winchester and District NCT, meeting parents from the city and the surrounding area.
The walk, hosted by a team of local Winchester & District NCT volunteers, saw Steve Brine join new and expectant parents on a walk around the city, answering questions along the way. Starting at the city’s iconic cathedral, and exploring a route along the River Itchen, Mr Brine happily discussed local issues, including maternity care and children's services.
Steve Brine MP commented: " I felt privileged to join the walk and talk and to meet the mums who came along. This may have started out as a covid survival idea but long may it continue and huge credit to the Winchester NCT volunteers for getting everyone together. These weekly groups have been invaluable to parents across the city during the pandemic and have helped to connect and support so many".
Bryony Farrant, Winchester & District NCT Branch Coordinator said: "Our weekly Walks have become a great lifeline for so many expecting and new parents in a time where the typical parenting groups have all been moved online - it's been amazing to meet so many local parents face-to-face. Those attending the walk with Steve really appreciated him listening to them about the issues important to them and their new families. It’s great to have his support of our NCT branch".
Winchester and District NCT has been hosting free weekly Walk & Talk events since the winter lockdown of 2020, in order to provide expecting and new parents with support, companionship and guidance during their parenting journey. Since the Walk & Talks launched, over 100 parents have attended the group. In addition to Walks & Talks, Winchester & District NCT hosts free face-to-face Breastfeeding support sessions run by fully trained breastfeeding counsellors, and weekly Bumps & Babies coffee mornings at Theatre Royal Cafe.
For more information on the free activities organised by Winchester & District NCT, visit their Facebook or Instagram page.