Are you a parent to be or a parent with a young baby and finding things more difficult than you anticipated? Are you feeling concerned that you’ve not formed a bond with your baby in the way you’d hoped you would? Has parenting stirred up some unexpected and difficult feelings? We want to let you know… You are not alone.

DorPIP is an independent, local charity that provides specialist services for parents and carers to help form safe, secure relationships with their baby. Through our specialised services, DorPIP provides support and guidance to help strengthen that important bond, promote mental well-being, and ensure children receive the best possible start in life. We aim to inspire and nurture, fostering flourishing families for generations to come.

At the heart of DorPIP’s services is our Parent-Infant Talking Therapy, a safe and confidential space where parents can explore their emotions and difficult feelings, alongside their little one building on the emerging connection, that will last a lifetime. Our compassionate therapists guide parents gently, helping them navigate the complexities of parenthood and fostering a secure, loving environment for both parent and child.

For those seeking a more hands-on approach, our Infant Massage courses are a magical bonding experience. Our certified facilitators expertly teach parents how to incorporate massage into their routines, creating a strong connection between them and their little ones. With a focus on observing and understanding their baby’s cues, parents learn to respond effectively and respectfully, strengthening the foundation of trust.

Amidst the challenges of parenting, feeling isolated can exacerbate emotional struggles. Our Support Group, Little Pips can allow parents can connect with others with similar experiences. These facilitated groups allowing babies to play and build early relationships, while parents explore various themes each week that will promote parenting confidence and wellbeing.

DorPIP’s services, including Parent-Infant Talking Therapy, Infant Massage classes, and Little Pips Groups, and our online courses, are accessible across Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Find upcoming course dates on our website: www.dorpip.org.uk

DorPIP also has two specialised online open access facilitated courses tailored for parents and carers.

Our “DorPIP Dads” course, exclusively designed for fathers and facilitated by award-winning fathers’ mental health campaigner Mark Williams, offer valuable insights into men’s mental health and its impact on baby development. These sessions empower fathers with essential knowledge on their significant role in their child’s life.

Similarly, “PeaPods” course designed with expectant and new parents in mind, provides vital information on mental health, emphasising the significance of nurturing the parent-child bond during the early stages of parenthood. Conducted by DorPIP’s Clinical Lead, experienced mother, and specialist Midwife Lisa Villa, these sessions create a confidential space for parents to explore their thoughts and feelings about parenthood, promoting overall wellbeing.

As parents, we all strive to provide the best for our children, but sometimes, we all need a helping hand. It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to feel vulnerable. If you find yourself facing unexpected hurdles in your parenting journey, take comfort in the knowledge that DorPIP is here to nurture and inspire you, every step of the way.

DorPIP also recently featured in our guide for New Parents in BCP which you can read all about here.

For general enquiries please contact the DorPIP team on 07813 989707 or email.

You can find out more about DorPIP on our website dorpip.org.uk or come and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

*This is a sponsored blog post written by DorPIP.