NCT: National Childcare Trust

A few days after Marianna was born I had an email to say I'd won a year's membership to NCT - the National Childbirth Trust - which is the UK's largest charity for parents. I joined my local branch (Cardiff, Caerphilly and Gwent) but there isn't much, if any, activity in Torfaen itself. The NCT magazine is really interesting though and, along with the local branch magazine, highlights the good work NCT does around the country, especially in areas where NHS antenatal (and postnatal) support is minimal. (Thankfully not the case in Torfaen - I went on a fantastic 8 week NHS antenatal course through Flying Start / Families First.)

The NCT logo.

One scheme I was particularly interested in was the baby bundles project. Basically, small bundles of donated 0-3 clothing and essentials such as moses baskets, nappies and toiletries are given to parents who can't afford to go out and buy them. I'm not aware of a scheme in Torfaen, so I posted a box full of 0-3 clothes to the organiser of the Cardiff branch. I think it's such a great idea, especially as so little baby clothing (and paraphernalia) gets much use. If you're interested in donating, or helping to raise funds for storage, contact rachelrundle@aol.com.

Marianna, the first grandchild on both sides, was spoiled rotten with clothing - combined with her stay on NICU she scarcely got any wear out of her first stage stuff at all. 

The exercise has also proved that, in one way at least, Marianna is a stereotypical girl. I could send off around 40 items of clothing and there is still no room in her wardrobe...