Mayor and Deputy Mayor donate annual expenses to The Happy Mums Foundation

The Mayor & Deputy Mayor of Penrith have donated their annual expenses to The Happy Mums Foundation (HMF), supporting local mums with accessible, emotional and peer support.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor can claim expenses associated with their civic duties. These unspent expenses are often donated to local good causes. This year, their combined expenses amount to £1,000 in total, and will help the HMF continue delivering welcoming, community-focused support for mums in and around Penrith.

Cllr Val Bowen, Mayor of Penrith, said:

“It’s a real pleasure to be able to support mums in our community through The Happy Mums Foundation. Too many people experience isolation and anxiety after having a baby, and it’s important that local support is easy to access, friendly and non-judgemental.

“By donating our expenses, we hope to help HMF continue offering a space where mums can talk openly, build confidence and know they are not alone.”

Cllr Barbara Jayson, Deputy Mayor of Penrith, said:

“Motherhood can be joyful, but it can also be emotionally challenging and deeply isolating. HMF provides a safe, welcoming space where mums can speak honestly about how they’re feeling and get the support they need, without barriers.

“We’re proud to donate our expenses to this worthy cause.”

Cllr Bowen also recently gave a talk to the Penrith branch of the Women’s Institute (WI) about her experience as Mayor of Penrith, as the town’s first female Mayor, and the work of the Council. In recognition of her presentation, the WI made a £50 donation to The Happy Mums Foundation. To find out more about The Happy Mums Foundation and their work, please visit: https://happymums.org.uk/