The Village Has Launched in Aberdeenshire: An Online Community for Parents with Care Experience
The Village Has Launched in Aberdeenshire: An Online Community for Parents with Care Experience
Becoming a new parent is a wonderful journey, though it comes with its challenges, and every new parent need someone to reach out to. For parents who have experience of care, finding the right community can make a meaningful difference. That’s why The Why Not? Trust is excited to launch The Village, a welcoming online community hub designed specifically for parents in Aberdeenshire who have care experience.
What Is The Village?
The Village is an inclusive online space created by and for parents with care experience. It offers expectant parents and those raising children aged 0–5 the chance to connect, share, and support each other through the early years of parenting. Developed in partnership with Care Visions, Early Years Scotland, and Scottish Attachment in Action, and supported by The Promise Scotland, The Village is more than just a community—it’s a safe place to find understanding and encouragement without judgement.
Who Is The Village For?
If you’re a parent in Aberdeenshire with experience of care, formal or informal, The Village is for you. It welcomes parents, grandparents, step-parents, partners, and carers from all backgrounds. This community hub is all about creating a network where parents can meet others who share similar experiences, exchange parenting tips, and find support in a friendly, inclusive environment.
A Flexible and Welcoming Community
One of the unique aspects of The Village is that it lets parents choose their level of involvement. Some may prefer to join online groups for activities like baby massage or yoga, while others might just want a friendly listening ear on those difficult days.
"We're delighted to launch The Village in Aberdeenshire," says Moira Greentree, Executive Director at The Why Not? Trust. "This is a place where parents with care experience can find real support and connection. Whether they're looking for a community to share parenting advice with, a friendly ear, or simply a place to connect, The Village offers a flexible and welcoming space that empowers parents to be involved at their own comfort level."
Practical Support and Peer Mentoring
Beyond fostering a community, The Village team provides one-on-one support and resources tailored to each parent’s unique needs, from sleep advice and weaning tips to information on family benefits. In fact, the team helped secure over £9,500 in benefits last year alone, making a real difference for families.
Parents in The Village can also join a peer mentoring programme, connecting with others who share similar experiences. This additional layer of support helps parents feel encouraged and confident, knowing they are part of a community that understands their journey. Here’s what some parents in The Village have to say:
“I can’t thank The Village enough; they have been incredibly supportive during some really challenging times… I feel connected to a community that genuinely cares.”
“I feel like I have an amazing support system that helps me grow both personally and as a parent, without judgement.”
Building a Broader Network of Support
Looking to the future, The Why Not? Trust aims to grow The Village by partnering with local organisations in Aberdeenshire. Through these partnerships, The Village will be able to offer even more resources and support to parents, building a community that continues to grow and evolve alongside the parents it serves.
If you or someone you know could benefit from this supportive community, why not join The Village? To find out more, visit https://whynottrust.org/the-village or connect with The Village on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @TheVillageScotland. You can also watch our video here for more information!