Our Southwest catchment recently started a Women’s AOD Supported Playgroup for mothers of pre-school children called “Pam’s”. The name of the group serves as a protective measure for some woman who are in coercive or controlling relationships, and it enables them to tell their partner’s that they are going to their friend Pam’s place, rather than to an AOD treatment program.
The playgroup is an opportunity to create a nurturing environment for women in recovery where they can bring their children along so they can benefit from meaningful interactions and development, and where the parents can also feel supported and not judged. The playgroup includes interactive play sessions for children which also allow mothers to share experiences and build relationships between each other and the children. It helps reduce the isolation that some parents feel, by connecting with others in the community.
PAMS was co-designed with a parent of a young child and a qualified educator, enabling both educational and a Lived Experience perspective.