Ruth Jackson, BristolLike many women in the UK, Ruth suffered severe post-natal depression after the birth of her first daughter 12 years ago and knows first hand the feeling of anxiety and isolation. Inspired by the help and support she received, Ruth is determined to make sure that other women don't have to go it alone. Ruth says: "Mothers suffering with depression are often ashamed to admit how they feel and suffer in silence. We want to give them the support and advice that will enable them to enjoy their future with their families". The £10,000 that Ruth has won will help to fund the first ever Bluebell Nurse; a health care specialist working in the community to provide vital emotional, clinical and practical support to new mothers across the UK.
Ruth adds: "Winning the Hello Tomorrow award is a huge boost for Bluebell Nurses and will provide vital funds to enable us to accelerate our plans and ultimately reach our goal of funding the first Bluebell Nurse, based in Bristol, followed by many more throughout the UK. We are very grateful to everyone who voted and to Avon for helping us to get a big step closer to providing this much needed new service to many mothers and families who are so desperate for more support at such a crucial time in their lives".
Claudia says: "I think creating a Bluebell Nurse is a fantastic idea and will help women who are so desperate for more support at such a crucial time in their lives".