Campaigning

Believe Community of Practice Leads the Way in Supporting Vulnerable Mothers Across Cheshire

The Believe Community of Practice, facilitated by Her- Place, continues to grow as a vital space for professionals and organisations working to support mothers at risk of child removal. Through collaboration, shared learning, and solution-focused dialogue, the Community is tackling some of the region’s most pressing social care challenges.

Currently, the group is prioritising two key areas of support:

1. Expanding Access to Hope Boxes Across Cheshire
   Hope Boxes—care packages containing essential items and wellbeing resources—provide emotional and practical support to mums in crisis. The Community of Practice is working to ensure every mother in need across the county has access to one, regardless of postcode or circumstance.
2. Improving Support for Mothers on Release from Prison
   Recognising the particular vulnerabilities of women leaving the criminal justice system, the group is developing strategies to improve transition support. This includes coordinated services, early intervention, and trauma-informed care to help mothers rebuild family bonds and prevent further separation from their children.

Kate Blakemore, CEO of Her-Place and lead for the Believe Community of Practice, said:
“We are passionate about creating systemic change by supporting mums who are often overlooked or stigmatised. Our work isn’t just about preventing child removal—it’s about giving women hope, tools, and real chances to move forward.”

The Community of Practice meets monthly online and brings together professionals from social care, criminal justice, health, and third-sector organisations. These sessions create a safe, constructive space to share challenges, celebrate successes, and influence service development across Cheshire.

Professionals interested in joining the Believe Community of Practice or contributing to the Hope Box initiative can contact Kate Blakemore at kate@her-place.co.uk

About Her Place:
Her- Place is a charity that provides mental health and wellbeing support for women and girls. The Believe project, one of its key programmes, is dedicated to supporting mums at risk of or affected by child protection interventions. Communities of Practice bring together staff within professional areas to connect, collaborate, solve problems and support career fulfilment and development.