Oldham mum reveals how taking part in a parenting course has changed her family life

Louise Hall says the 10-week course through Oldham Family Hubs has helped her to stay calm in difficult situations.

Parents have formed invaluable bonds while learning how to get the best out of family life by taking part in a 10-week parenting course,

Eleven parents recently completed a Family Links Nurture Programme held at Oldham Library, showing parents how to manage feelings and behaviour to cope in difficult situations and achieve a more positive and nurturing relationship with their children.

The course is provided by the Oldham Parenting Team through the council's Family Hubs offer aimed at giving children in Oldham the best start in life.

Louise, who has three children, said; "I'm dealing with things now in a different way. In situations where I'd shout, it has helped me to remain calm.

"I used to cry all the time but now I don't cry all the time like I used to."

Sherree Hopkins said: "It helps you to recognise when you need to take a step back.

"I have two girls and my eldest is now coming to me more and my youngest is more understanding of herself and her sister."

Fatoom Dar said: "I have got a lot out of it and I have learnt so much.

"This course has been a good reminder that we are not alone."

Farhana Sultana praised: "The teachers are excellent.

"I don't know how I can give enough thanks."

And another mum added: "It makes you stop and think about your parenting techniques and the things that can have an emotional impact, such as getting your kids dressed for school."

Interpreter Sally Mitchell translated in Spanish for South American dad Jonathan Martinez, and she also received a certificate for completing the course.

"I've really bonded with them all and it's sad that it's finished," she said.

"I might practise what I've learnt on my grandchildren."

Jonathan said: "I have found it really helpful and learnt new qualities,

"It has helped me to really bond with my three children."

Parenting officer Nicola Carnes, from the Oldham 0 -19 Right Start Service, said: "During this 10-week course, friendships have been formed and they are planning to meet up afterwards.

"It's about knowing someone is there for them and they have formed a support network.

"They have bonded so nicely."

During the final session parents were presented with certificates and a guidebook to take home with them.

The next Family Links Nurture Programme will be held at Oldham Library from Wednesday January 15 at 10am-12pm. 

And a course will be held at Failsworth Town Hall from Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 9.30am-12pm.

To book, please email: parentsupporthub@oldham.gov.uk.

Oldham Family Hubs provide services and activities for families of children aged 0-19, and 25 with special educational needs and disabilities, including parenting support, maternity, infant feeding support and speech and language.

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "This is a fantastic course, supporting the people of Oldham on their parenting journeys and helping to give their children the best start in life. 

"It is providing our parents with a toolkit to cope, creating a calmer, nurturing household, while making friendships and forming bonds to continue an emotional support network.

"Well done to everyone who completed the course.

"Hopefully the progress that these parents have made will encourage others to take up this support available to them."

For more information about the support available to you, and your nearest Family Hub, please visit: familyhubs.oldham.gov.uk

And for queries about parenting support, email: parentsupporthub@oldham.gov.uk

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