’Net gains for mums and dads

5:00pm Friday 29th August 2008

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MUMS grappling with the challenges of parenthood are being urged to throw themselves into cyberspace to find new friends in York.

A website has been launched, aimed at mothers and fathers in the city who struggle to get out and feel isolated.

More than 50 people have signed up to the York city centre branch of the national Netmums site. They can log on to leave jokes and messages for each other as well as share tips on issues from nappy rash to troubled teens.

As well as chatting online, members have also started to hold face-to-face get-togethers with outings including Rowntree Park and the National Railway Museum. A night out is now in the pipeline for September 13.

Rebecca Burns, the York city centre Netmums Meet-Up co-ordinator, hopes to spread the word about the fledgling group.

“Netmums is now running official ‘meet ups’. It is not like parent and toddler groups where you have to go every week,” said Rebecca, of Fulford, who has a five-month-old son Alfie. “It is quite informal. We have about 53 people who keep in touch and try to organise one big meet-up a month. Previous trips have gone really well.

“We have a few things planned such as swimming and the Jorvik centre. Next month we are going for a night out which seems to be appealing to lots of mums and dads.”

She said such websites were proving to be a lif line for many people. It can be really isolating when you have children. Some days you can’t even be bothered to get dressed but because it is internet-based, people can pop on and talk to people. That’s why it’s appealing.”

She said the group, which also has its own page on the social networking website Facebook, was open to parents with children of all ages. “Because it is such a mix of ages, you can get advice on anything,” she said The group is meeting today at 11am at the gates to Rowntree Park.

For more information about Netmums, visit netmums.com or phone Rebecca on 07756 892788.