'I don’t feel like I’m getting help': Why Dudley parents turning to social media for support

The shocking conclusion is highlighted in a report presented at Dudley Council’s Health and Wellbeing Board meeting in June called Growing Up in Dudley.

The report asked 60 parents from ‘less heard’ groups of the population to give a detailed insight into their experiences.

Among the testimony presented in the report was the view of Surika, a new mother aged 35.

She said: “It’s hard to work out who does what, and as a new mom, you don’t know what you’re doing…you need someone to send you in the right direction.”

Parents also say they don’t feel they have enough information about Dudley Council’s Family Hubs which took over from childrens’ centres.

Councillor David Stanley, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for children’s services and education, said: “As a local authority we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of families in our borough, and we have plans to ensure the family hubs can continue to deliver this support.

“The growing up in Dudley research was commissioned before the launch of the family hubs last year. The voice of children and young people is important to us, and we are developing an action plan that will respond to the recommendations that have been identified.”

Parents are turning to communities on social media to get up-to-date information they say they trust.

Becky, aged 32, said: “I get information from Brierley Hill Babybank’s Facebook page and Real Moma Tribe, that’s the best place because people share what they’re learning.”

Priah, aged 28, was concerned her son may have an eating disorder, she said: “I don’t feel like I’m getting the help I need. I ended up looking on Facebook and Mumsnet and posting my questions there.

“When you feel like you’re fighting on your own, those groups make you feel less alone.”

There are five family hubs around the borough offering a wide range of services for parents of people aged up to 19 or 25 for youngsters with special needs.

Cllr Stanley added: “The family hubs provide valuable advice, practical support and information to parents and carers. We had a great response to the launch events and have worked hard to build on that success and ensure our families know about the hubs and the help available to them.

“We proactively encourage parents and carers to access the hubs and we provide reliable information via the council’s website, its social media channels and to those who have signed up for regular email updates.

“And of course, parents and carers are welcome to visit a hub to find out more. We’ll also be working with schools and key partners to share information about what’s on offer.”

Chrissy, a mum of two premature babies, said: “You want people to refer you, not just signpost you to services that then pass you from pillar to post.”