Arlo's Cabin Art Therapy

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Becoming a parent is a life changing time for many. Whilst it is a life defining and joyful time for most, it is also easily one of the toughest and most hilarious-hideous jobs that one can ever be assigned.

 

 "Parenting is like an exam you never studied for"

 

Unfortunately, it is also estimated that 20,000 women in the UK each year suffer traumatic births. A further 20% of new mums also experience symptoms of perinatal mental distress and develop post natal depression and anxiety. This figure is actually considerably higher, as many new parents don't seek help, and often struggle in fear and silence. 

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Therefore I wanted to help new parents if they are struggling in any way with the early stages of parenthood. Maternity leave can also be quite an isolating and intense period, and so I also want to develop a network for new parents, that is built on empathy, comedic moans, banter and strong coffee. That and to promise you that it all gets so much easier.

 

 

The concept in a nutshell:

 

Through a successful Crowdfunding campaign, I was able to raise a small amount of funding to start Arlo's Cabin art therapy workshops. I felt it a mission to create a space for parents and babies to come and just be. This was originally in my beautiful set of cabins in Worthing. But then I acquired this wonderful studio. Parents can basically come and make something if they feel inclined. Or merely drink coffee while I hold the baby. 

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Making things with your hands has proven benefits for helping with symptoms of anxiety. So therefore, I strongly believe that creative expression is helpful to healthy human development and recovery from perinatal mental distress. I believe that everyone has the capacity to be creative. But often with mini people about, time is not granted for such therapeutic activity. Let’s not even mention the all consuming sleep deprivation. We don’t need to be reminded of that. So whether you are struggling or not, come and say hello, I would love to meet you and your little one.

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Arlo's Cabin Board of Advisors

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The main objective of my board of Arlo's Cabin Advisors, is that they aide the direction of the charitable side of the business. With their astounding knowledge and expertise in a variety of areas. They are essentially my bravery, support and wisdom. I feel so excited to be supported by a group of people that share my passion, and aspirations for the project and its future. I also implicitly trust each of them to guide and critique my decision making, in a non-judgemental way, to make Arlo’s Cabin as successful as possible.

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Vicki: Content and digital media strategy advisor

Chelsie: Event and community networking guru

Carly: Philanthropic direction (and general life mentor)

Naomi: Small business advisor

Hannah: Ideas and innovation advisor

Kev: Fundraising and research guru

Christie: Play Specialist Advisor