A warm welcome to APP’s in person peer support social / café group!  We are looking forward to meeting up together for a cuppa, to share experiences, and to support each other.

The group is for people who have experienced psychosis or mania in the perinatal period, whether they are newly recovering or were unwell many years ago. It is an informal and social get-together, with no set agenda, to share experiences, make new friends, and support each other through life’s ups and downs.

It is also a place where you can inform APP’s campaigning strategy as we share ideas of how support can be improved in our local areas for families who experience psychosis in the perinatal period.

Before you join the group for the first time, the group facilitator will arrange to talk with you over phone or video call. This is so the facilitator can introduce themselves, tell you more about the group, and answer any questions you might have. We will also ask you for the name and phone number of someone who you are happy for us to contact in the unlikely event of an emergency.

The group usually meets in a public café, or sometimes we may go for a walk. Before the meet up the facilitator will send an email to let you know where the group is meeting, and how to get there. We try to choose a venue that is spacious and not too busy. APP can pay for all drinks at the meet up. APP can also pay for your travel to the group if needed. Please get in touch with us if you would find this helpful.

You are really welcome to bring your child/ren to the meet up, though some people prefer to come on their own so they can talk with others more easily. You are also welcome to bring a family member or friend with you if you would like to. Please let the facilitator know if you are coming with others, just so we can ensure we have adequate space reserved.

Here’s a bit about what to expect when you join the group:

Welcome and introductions

  • At least one member of APP peer support staff and a peer support volunteer will be hosting the group.
  • The group is informal. We usually start by introducing ourselves to each other. There is no pressure to say anything, you can just let people know your name if you prefer.
  • Sometimes we talk together as a whole group, or talk in smaller groups, whatever happens naturally.

Confidentiality

  • We want to create a safe space for everyone to share experiences.
  • There’s no pressure to talk - you are welcome to join in however you feel most comfortable.
  • Please make sure that you keep other people’s experiences shared in the group confidential.
  • Please be mindful around identifying NHS staff who have been involved in your care, and maintain confidentiality for anyone you may have been in hospital with.

Taking care of yourself 

  • Please feel completely free to come and go during the meet up – it’s fine if you need to sort out children or want to take a break, or leave early.
  • Sometimes when we share our experiences of postpartum psychosis or other challenges we are facing it can be upsetting – either to share your own experiences, or to listen to the experiences of others. If you need to take some time out that’s absolutely fine. Do let someone who is facilitating the group know that you need to take a break, so that they know you are OK, and can support you if needed. Please also let someone know if you decide or need to leave early.
  • After the group, you can email or text the facilitator of the group for further support.

Being mindful of others

  • Please be warm and supportive, respecting differences and allowing space for everyone to participate in the way they want to.

Thank you for being part of our community – see you at our in person meet up soon!