How Mother’s Day can be painful for mums recovering from abuse

As Mother’s Day approaches, Family Action’s Bradford Survive & Thrive service is urging the local community to be aware that this can be an emotionally challenging time for many mums who have had to rebuild their lives after domestic abuse.

Practitioners at the service say that, while Mother’s Day is often seen as a joyful celebration, for some local mums it can instead bring loneliness, reminders of past abuse, pressure to live up to “perfect family” images online, and the emotional strain of becoming a single parent unexpectedly.

Family Action’s Bradford Survive & Thrive supports families who have been affected by domestic abuse, helping parents and their children feel safer, more confident and more connected as they rebuild their futures.

Moji Alaiyemola, Service Manager, said:

Mother’s Day can be incredibly emotional for mums we work with. Many are navigating safety, healing and huge life changes, all while trying to create a sense of stability for their children. What we see every day is enormous strength. Our role is to walk alongside them, help them feel less alone, and make sure they can access the right support at the right time.

Family Action is encouraging local mums who may be struggling at this time of year to reach out for support, not just around Mother’s Day, but year round.