Project overview

Smile Group provides relief to those affected by perinatal mental health challenges (which include pre/ postnatal anxiety &depression) via peer support as well as signposting to services that complement statutory support. We offer advice for health & education to the public in relation to Perinatal Mental Illness, particularly new parents/families, providing support through the first 3 years where needed. Our service model includes: peer support groups, talk therapy, 1:1 home visits and monthly family sessions. Perinatal mental health challenges affect up to 1 in 5 new and expectant mums and 1 in 10 dads (NHS Statistic). We are looking for some support for 2 laptops for the Wellbeing Practitioners in order to complete their admin tasks, and if possible mouse and keyboard to attach to them when they are working from a base.

What support is needed

We are looking for a laptop and if possible a mouse and keyboard that can attach to it for ease when docked. Like many charities and organisations it is difficult to access funding at present, and whilst we managed to replace 3 of our 5year old Surface Go's earlier in the year we are still looking to replace 2 more. The laptops are used for registering families, general administrative duties, training and logging case notes from visits. We are looking for funding for the role but it can be more difficult to get some of the resources that are also needed like laptops etc.

What difference would it make to our project?

The Surface Go's have very small screens and whilst flexible in groups they aren't as good as a laptop that has a bigger screen and they can't as easily hook up to a screen for when they are office/home based. The Surface Go's are also old and getting slow so something newer would also be beneficial as this will support the team to be able to complete their tasks, without so much stress on the eyes and the frustration of a slow device.

Areas in which we need help:

1. Across Cheshire East.

To connect with this offer, contact the Connected Communities Team SocialValueCE@cheshireeast.gov.uk.