Mums' night out open to all as National Childbirth Trust launch Dungannon branch

And, while the Mums and Bumps Night coincides with World Breastfeeding Week and features discussions from breastfeeding counsellors, organisers are keen to emphasise that the charity supports all parents and the event itself is an opportunity for women to meet with other mums and forge new friendships.

Claire Hackett, one of those behind the initiative, told the TIMES: “The NCT is a UK wide charity and a Tyrone, Armagh and Down branch has just been set up. I am helping to get the branch underway in Dungannon and the event is just a way for mums and new mums to come along, meet others and get support.

“In my own situation, for instance, I am not in a SureStart area, so I am limited in the groups and events that I can get involved in with my children and with other mums.

“Through the local NCT branch, we will be running Mum ‘Me Time’ events which will be a way of encouraging mums to take time for themselves and could involve anything from meeting for a coffee or enjoying a cinema night. There is so much awareness now on perinatal mental health and this is one way of helping mums to take some time out and enjoy the company of others in similar situations.”

The Mums and Bumps Night will take place at Parkanaur Manor House on August 4 from 7pm to 9pm, with a goody bag for the first 30 mums.

As well as talks from NCT Antenatal Teachers, information on cloths and slings will also be provided, as well as pampering treats, Jamberry nail wraps, make-up applications and massages, will be on offer.

A raffle will also take place on the night, and more information can be found by logging on to the NCT Tyrone Armagh and Down Facebook page.

The NCT also has a Northern Ireland Facebook page for more details on the work they do and how to get involved in any events in your local area.

For Claire, who is mum to two boys, the aim of the Mums and Bumps Night is to raise money to help the Dungannon branch of the charity provide events and initiatives which are appealing to mums in the area and to help develop and sustain friendships and support networks for mothers.

She adds: “We would love to see as many mums and mumsto-be coming along for what shhould be a great evening!”