Finsbury Park single mums extend a helping hand
Released: 08.11.06

 

While the government is planning to address the needs of socially excluded families, the UCKG HelpCentre in Finsbury Park is delivering results. And its support group for teenage single mothers in Finsbury Park has just launched a new initiative.

Members of the Victory Youth Group’s The Young, Single Mothers Group based at the UCKG HelpCentre now carry invitations to their group for other girls in the same predicament. They will be handing them out whenever they come across stressed out young women with children playing up.

Group member Jackline Namakula a 21 year old mother from Finsbury Park with a son of nearly three said “Being young, single and a parent is not easy as you receive all sort of criticism. But the support I’ve received from the VYG makes a huge difference and so I’m keen to help by encouraging others to join in.

“My attitude to life has changed over the months that I’ve been attending the group. I no longer think of myself and my son as two of life’s victims or a problem family. Instead I have the confidence and determination to succeed as a mum and progress with my career plans. The group has helped me gain self confidence and believe in myself.”

The Young, Single Mothers Group was started in April 2006 by Pastor Luke Castro, who heads UCKG’s Victory Youth Group (VYG) in London and across the UK. It was created in response to a small but increasing number of young mothers who started attending the VYG and benefited from contact with the group. 

“We aim to provide support and friendship for young single mums who find it very hard to cope with unintended motherhood, and attendance is growing well,” said Pastor Luke. “There’s a forum where members can discuss problems like adjusting to life as a single parent, dealing with stress, time management and how to enjoy yourself while being a responsible mother. Highly experienced and trained UCKG volunteers provide guidance and support.”

Importantly the group provides easy access to other outreach services that UCKG HelpCentres offer to all - irrespective of religious affiliations, ethnicity, gender or any other factor. These include training in basic skills and IT, employment advice, counselling on personal, money and spiritual matters and friendship. 

For further information on the group, call the 24 hour Help Line on 020 7686 6000 and ask to speak to the youth leader.

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If you require any further information regarding the UCKG, please submit your enquiry or telephone Francessca Lewis on 0207 686 6033.