Find out more about us below and why we love what we do!
Fi McQuay, Co-founder
A part-time photographer with experience in working with women who have been involved in the Criminal Justice System and domestic abuse, Fi was unexpectedly overwhelmed by anxiety and stress following the birth of her first child. "I remember feeling isolated and distanced from what was supposed to be a ‘natural’ experience," she reflects. "It wasn’t until I attended a baby-friendly theatre show about birth that I realised I wasn’t alone in my feelings and that many others were eager to discuss the dramatic changes that come with motherhood. Thankfully, Beth shared this perspective, and together, we brought ‘Becoming Mums’ to life."
Beth Allum, Co-founder
An arts producer, bid writer, global educator and artistic director of dance organisation, Dance Reading. “When my son was tiny I struggled to find my place in the world again and I was shocked to find myself surrounded by other mothers and parents who were having a really hard time but seemed to have no support. When Fi came to me wanting to start a conversation about birth experiences, I jumped at the chance to create a safe space for meaningful, facilitated conversation about us and not just our babies.”
Sammy Maggs, Communications Manager & Group Facilitator
Previously an office manager in the entertainment industry and now working extensively within the perinatal and maternal sector with organisations such as MNVP, PANDAS (Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support) and Babies In Buscot Support (BIBS), Sammy brings a wealth of perinatal experience and knowledge to Becoming Mums. “After years of baby and toddler groups, I found myself in desperate need of a group with more focus on the mum, and that's when I discovered Becoming Mums.”
Georgie Bryceson, Group Facilitator
‘I wasn’t prepared for the loss of identity and isolation that can come with early motherhood. I was so grateful to find Becoming Mums and take part in their creative writing and journaling courses. They really provided an outlet for some negative feelings I was having towards spending long nights nursing. Learning the names of the people I was having such important conversations with also really helped.'