Creative Communities: Supporting Mothers Through Creativity in Sedgley

Creative spaces can offer something incredibly powerful, especially when they bring people together who share similar experiences. Through support from the Creative Black Country’s Creative Communities strand, the Creative Moms Support Network recently delivered a series of creative wellbeing sessions designed specifically for mothers of neurodivergent and SEND children across the Black Country.

The sessions created a welcoming environment where mothers could pause, connect and spend time focusing on their own wellbeing.

The info below is edited from an impact report written by Emma Whitehouse, Founder of Bright Path CIC, who organised the Creative Moms Support Network.

A supportive network with a creative and educational twist

In February, the project delivered creative wellbeing sessions for mothers of neurodivergent and SEND children across the Black Country. The aim was to create a safe, understanding and relaxing space where mothers could pause, connect and feel heard. Through hands-on creative activities and open discussion, participants were able to take time for self-care, emotional regulation and shared lived experience.

Many of the mothers involved are navigating complex school systems, high stress levels and social isolation. The sessions were designed from lived experience to help reduce that isolation while strengthening connections within the community.

Outcomes and impact

The sessions supported 20 mothers and created meaningful opportunities for connection and shared understanding.

Outcomes included:

• 20 mothers feeling calmer and more emotionally regulated after the sessions

• Participants building supportive peer connections and sharing practical advice

• Increased confidence in navigating school systems and advocating for their children

• Reduced feelings of isolation through shared understanding and safe conversation

• Mothers supporting each other from their own lived experiences

Beyond the sessions themselves, several mothers shared that feeling supported positively impacted their home environment and overall wellbeing.

What participants said

Participants spoke openly about how valuable it was to spend time with others who truly understood their experiences.

“Thank you - Great night and felt lovely being part of a group that understands.”

“This workshop is much needed, it’s so enlightening to meet parents in the same situation/facing the same circumstances with dealing with children with SEND.”

“Lovely to meet new members, share similar experiences and lovely information from Jodie too! Love the creativity - thank you”

“I will light these tealights when I feel overwhelmed, love them.”

The power of creativity and connection

The project highlights how creative activity can help create supportive spaces where people feel able to share experiences and build new connections.

As Emma Whitehouse reflected: “These workshops have proven the power of creativity, connection and safe spaces. We look forward to continuing this important work and supporting more mothers in the months ahead.”

Supported through the Creative Communities strand, this project demonstrates how small, community-led initiatives can have a lasting impact, helping people feel less isolated while building stronger local networks of support.