At Mums Can Do, our mission is to build an empowering community that helps mothers to realise their value, reignite their ambitions and move forward with confidence - both personally and professionally.
This can look very different for every Mum, which is why we create a range of resources to support our audience in the best possible way, whatever they are going through.
Many Mums find themselves in situations where it can be beneficial to have support from external sources, but not everyone is aware of the help that is out there. In today’s blog, we’re taking a look at some of the types of support that are available and talking through the ways that they can help Mums.
Different types of free advice for Mums
Not all support is paid-for. We are proud to work as a hub for free advice and actionable support.
Here are just some of the topics that we cover on Mums Can Do:
- Mental health support and access to trusted professionals
- Wellness and self-care guidance tailored to Mums
- Practical help for everyday parenting challenges
- Signposting to domestic abuse services and safe support
- Community connections to reduce isolation
You don’t have to face this alone
Alongside the support that we offer at Mums Can Do, we have teamed up with HAB Law, based in Watford, Hertfordshire, to share their expert guidance. Their website is packed with information, with HAB Law being committed to making a positive difference and increasing access to justice for all members of society, in a more kind, collaborative and digital way.
Domestic abuse support
A shocking 1 in 4 women in the UK will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. But what does domestic abuse look like?
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone and it can look very different from case to case.
It can include:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Financial abuse
- Psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Stalking, either physically or via social media
- Controlling and coercive behaviour
Click here to learn more about the signs of domestic abuse.
Accessing free domestic abuse advice and assistance
When there is evidence of domestic abuse, you may be entitled to free legal advice and assistance. In order to qualify, the Legal Aid Agency needs you to show that you require urgent assistance to obtain a protective order, and that your income and capital are below certain limits.
For those receiving a passported benefit, such as Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance, you are typically eligible without any further means assessments being required. For those working, the Legal Aid Agency will check that you meet their means criteria.
Reach out today
We understand that reaching out can feel overwhelming, especially if you feel you may be a victim of domestic abuse, but we are here to help. We have a simple form for you to complete, asking you for the best time to be contacted, so we can arrange for the appropriate expert to contact you with free advice when it is convenient for you.
Here's what you can expect to see on the domestic abuse support form.
Family law
Family law services offer clear, practical advice across a range of sensitive issues including marriage breakdown and family changes. This can include injunctions, mediation, divorce and child arrangements.
Care proceedings
If a Local Authority becomes involved with your family, there are specialist care departments available to help and support you through the legal process at either the Public Law Outline or Court proceedings stage.
Mental health
Mental health law requires a team that understands the complexities that are involved in mental health cases and that this can be a distressing time for those involved. Having a compassionate approach to cases while making sure wishes are understood and legal rights are met, is essential.
Court of protection
Court of Protection solicitors are needed to help when individuals lose the ability to make decisions for themselves. This can often be due to mental health conditions, dementia, severe learning difficulties, accidents or medical negligence. Should this be needed, it’s important to speak with specialists that can advise on all mental capacity issues and Court of Protection applications.
Reach out for support today
Help is just one step away.
Stay tuned for our series that runs through the different types of support available for Mums who find themselves in challenging life situations, designed to raise awareness of the resources available.