TWO mothers who have gone through the trauma of postnatal illness have developed a workshop for those who have recovered from the condition but are struggling with the after effects. Charlotte Wilmer-Barbrook, from London Colney set up Herts Postnatal Il

TWO mothers who have gone through the trauma of postnatal illness have developed a workshop for those who have recovered from the condition but are struggling with the after effects.

Charlotte Wilmer-Barbrook, from London Colney set up Herts Postnatal Illness Support after suffering from the worst form of the condition herself. Together with a number of other trustees, she works to offer help to other mums suffering the same fate.

Charlotte, who is due to make a skydive next month to raise awareness about postnatal illness, met Yvonne Adams through the charity and together they have created a specialist-care practice designed to meet the needs of ill mums, their partners and families.

The first workshop - Postnatal Illness, A Journey Unique to Motherhood - will take place in March.

Charlotte is a registered drama and movement therapist and Yvonne is a trained nurse and counsellor so, by combining their skills, they have developed a day-long session which consists of both talking and creative exercises.

In groups and in pairs, the women will have the chance to explore their pre-birth, birth and post-birth experiences and time will be devoted to expressing the unspoken trauma of having postnatal illness and its crippling effect on the family.

The workshop culminates in guidance on how to move forward with a more positive outlook.

It will take place between 10am and 4pm at St Stephen's Church Hall in Watling Street, St Albans, and it costs £35, including lunch. The deadline for applications to the event is February 1.

For further information about the event, phone Charlotte on 01727 826627 or Yvonne on 01727 853400, or visit the website at www.postnatalillnesscounselling. co.uk

For general information about Herts Postnatal Illness Support visit www.postnatalillness.co.uk