Award winning Birth Parents Project offers hope ahead of festive season

After winning the Best Parenting Group in Scotland accolade at the recent Scottish Parent Awards hosted by Parent Network Scotland, NHS Grampian’s Birth Parents Project is looking to offer a hand to others who may be struggling in the run-up to Christmas.

The project provides specialist support for parents in Grampian whose children have been permanently removed from their care, including parents based within HMP Peterhead. The group provides a safe and understanding space for reflection, connection, and hope, while continuing to raise awareness of the importance of support for all parents affected by separation.

The award recognised the outstanding work of a dedicated team of women – Natalie, Michelle and Mel – who provide emotional and practical peer support to others. They have been involved in the project since its early days, co-producing two short films along with other women supported by the project and with the support of Station House Media Unit (SHMU).

NHS Grampian Birth Parents Project Manager, Leanne Ferries explained: “I’m incredibly proud of these women and the support they give to help other parents.

“They offer empathy, understanding, and encouragement at a time when parents need it most. Their compassion is truly life-changing, and the award recognises the difference they make through their empathy, strength and kindness. If you are a birth parent who is struggling at this time – and perhaps more so as the festive season gets underway – please get in touch with us as we would love to help.”

The project is one of several initiatives being delivered as part of The Promise Scotland, reflecting a national commitment to ensure that families in Scotland are supported with compassion, dignity, and understanding.

Developed with the recognition and support of Aberdeen City Council's social work team, the project is funded by the Scottish Government through the Corra Foundation and delivered by NHS Grampian, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in improving outcomes for families across the region.

Mel, who regularly attends meetings in Aberdeen to offer help to other birth parents, commented: “I speak on behalf of the peer group when I say the award is about hope, strength, and connection. It honours every parent – past and present – who has faced distance, loss, or separation, yet continues to love without limits.

“Together we are stronger. Together we can bring awareness, understanding and change. I stand not as someone broken, but as someone still standing for my children, for myself, and for every parent walking this path. We are here to stand with you and would urge you to get in touch.”

Tracy Davis, Child Health Commissioner for NHS Grampian, added: “This project shows what can be achieved when compassion and collaboration come together. The team has built something remarkable that not only supports parents but also strengthens awareness and understanding across Aberdeen and Grampian.

“The Supporting Birth Parents Project continues to champion collaboration, compassion, and innovation — supporting parents across the region, including those in custody, with dignity, respect, and hope.”

The Birth Parents Project is part of ‘The Promise’ to make sure care-experienced children and young people grow up loved, safe and respected in Scotland. The aim is to better support families and break cycles as care-experienced people are more likely to have their own children adopted. Any birth parent who is looking for support can email leanne.ferries@nhs.scot or call 07498321916.